Hawthorn Berry Quick Facts
Common Species: Crataegus laevigata, Crataegus monogyna, Crataegus oxyacantha
Other Names: English Hawthorn, Haw, Hawthorn Tops, Mayhaw, and Whitethorn Herb
Family: Rosaceae
Origin: Temperate climates in Europe, Asia, and North America
Health Benefits: Heart Health, Digestive Support, and Skin Protection
Common Uses: Herbal Medicine, Candies, Preserves, and Landscaping
How Hawthorn Berry Works
The hawthorn tree’s berries, leaves, seeds, and flowers are all packed with therapeutic benefits. They contain beneficial flavonoids, oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), saponins, phenolic acids, and other phytonutrients that promote good health and stimulate the body’s internal healing mechanisms.
Promotes a Healthy Heart
Hawthorn berries are rich in flavonoids and OPCs, which are powerful antioxidants that help reduce free radicals, improve circulation, and support the health of arteries. These heart-related benefits are why hawthorn has been used for centuries. Heart failure, which can be diastolic (when the heart can’t fill with blood properly) or systolic (when the heart can’t pump blood efficiently), often leads to serious health issues. In a study with over 800 patients suffering from chronic heart failure, hawthorn berry showed significant benefits.
Supports Normal Blood Pressure
High blood pressure affects 29% of adults in the United States and can lead to severe health problems like heart attacks or strokes if left unchecked. Studies have shown that hawthorn may help maintain balanced blood pressure levels.
Encourages Balanced Cholesterol
There are two types of cholesterol: good (HDL) and bad (LDL). High levels of bad cholesterol can lead to serious health issues and increase the risk of heart disease. Research suggests that hawthorn berry helps maintain normal cholesterol levels. In one animal study, hawthorn extract reduced cholesterol levels in rabbits with high cholesterol. Another study found that hawthorn berry reduced LDL levels in mice.
Antioxidant Activity of Hawthorn
The primary antioxidants in hawthorn are flavonoids and OPCs. These compounds not only support heart health but also protect against free radicals, which can damage cells, accelerate aging, and negatively impact overall well-being.
Other Benefits of Hawthorn Berry
Beyond heart health, hawthorn berry has been used in folk medicine and Ayurveda for various health benefits, including digestive and skin health. One study showed that hawthorn berry had gastro-protective effects in mice, while another study found that it supported the development of healthy skin cells.
Hawthorn Berry Side Effects and Precautions
Hawthorn berry is generally safe to consume, with few reported side effects in most studies. However, some possible side effects include headache, nausea, and irregular heartbeat. Pregnant or nursing women and children should avoid hawthorn berry. Additionally, if you are on medication or have heart concerns, consult your healthcare provider before taking hawthorn berry.
Available Forms of Hawthorn
Hawthorn extract, which provides plant-based nutrition, is available in powder, capsule, or liquid form. The term “hawthorn berry” usually refers to the herbal extract from the whole plant, not just the berries. Some researchers prefer using the plant’s flowers and leaves due to their higher flavonoid concentration.
Hawthorn berries are also enjoyed worldwide in candies, jams, jellies, and even wine. The tender spring leaves are edible and make a great salad garnish. The berries vary in size, color, and name depending on the region. In the United States, small, tart, red berries called mayhaw are popular, especially in southeastern states. Mayhaw jelly is a delicacy, and the syrup from the berries is used in sauces, pie fillings, and desserts. Unfortunately, the plant is becoming scarce due to deforestation and disease.
Natural Ways to Promote a Healthy Heart
While hawthorn berry offers specialized nutrition for heart health, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also crucial. Eating heart-healthy foods, exercising regularly, and managing stress are effective long-term strategies for promoting a healthy heart.
