Health Quest

Back to List of Patient Handouts Print Friendly Version

Hawthorn Berries

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Heart disorders (congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, arrhythmias) - Mild diuretic - Sore throat

Clinical Applications/Research

Hawthorn Berries

Hawthorn berries have a favorable effect on blood pressure (Forsch Med 1993;111:352-354; Planta Medica 1981;43:313-322). This is probably due to the flavonoids having a stabilizing effect on collagen structures, such as the blood vessels and small capillaries, and by affecting vasodilation by the response in the prostaglandin pathway. The ability to inhibit angiotension converting enzyme (ACE) (Jpn J Pharmacol 1987;43:242-245), and to demonstrate mild diuretic activity also help reduce hypertension. The dilation of the vessels results in reduced peripheral resistance and increased coronary circulation (Hamon NW. Canad Pharm J 1988; Nov:708-724). Angiotension converting enzyme converts a relatively inactive form of angiotensin (angiotensin I) into an active, very powerful vasoconstrictor, angiotensin II. The ability of the proanthocyanidins to inhibit the converting enzyme results in relaxed blood vessels, and its action has rivaled that of the drug, Captopril (Jpn J Pharmacol 1987;43:242-245), a synthetic enzyme inhibitor used widely for hypertension. Hawthorn berries have been traditionally used in the area of congestive heart failure, because of their ability to increase the contraction of the heart. They do this by inhibiting the enzyme cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase (Planta Medica 1981;43:183-186). Since the enzyme breaks down the energy-boosting signaller, cyclic AMP, inhibition of the enzyme results in more forceful contractions. Hawthorn is commonly used in conjunction with other drugs for heart failure, such as digitalis, or in combination with other herbs containing cardiac glycosides (i.e. Cereus grandifloris), as it potentiates the action of the glycosides. Since hawthorn does enhance the action of the cardiac glycosides, it allows for lower doses of adjunctive therapy to be used. Magnesium also has an enhancing action on digitalis, and can be considered a good synergistic nutrient. Double-blind studies have consistently shown that hawthorn is effective for congestive heart failure in the early stages (and also minor arrhythmias) where digitalis is not yet indicated (no adverse reactions occurred in the studies) (Forsch Med 1992;110:290-292; Forsch Med 1986;104:805-808; Forsch Med 1993;111:352-354). Persistance in supplementation is recommended, as it can take up to 2 weeks to reach a satisfactory tissue saturation level. Extended use of hawthorn berries has had a beneficial effect on cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels in Chinese animal studies (Chung His I Choeh Ho Tsa Chih 1990;10:361).

Suggested Dosage

Up to 3-5 grams can be taken three times per day or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Hawthorn berries are determined to have low toxicity.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

Back to List of Patient Handouts Print Friendly Version