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Hawthorn Berry

cardiovascular support and antioxidant properties

Evidence · Grade C
Traditional useInteraction risk

Hawthorn berry is a traditional remedy often used for cardiovascular support, recognized for its antioxidant properties and potential to aid heart health.

Last reviewed June 12, 2026 · AI-assisted, human-reviewed
Hawthorn berry (Crataegus species) is a traditional herbal remedy often used for cardiovascular conditions. It contains flavonoids and proanthocyanidins which are believed to contribute to its cardioprotective effects.

Quick answer

What it is: Hawthorn berry (Crataegus species) is a traditional herbal remedy often used for cardiovascular conditions.

May support:Atherosclerosis

Evidence:Evidence · Grade C

Evidence Summary

Evidence · Grade C

The current evidence for hawthorn berry's efficacy is largely based on traditional use and some preliminary research. Without specific PubMed studies provided, a definitive scientific grade cannot be assigned. General knowledge suggests a need for more robust, high-quality human clinical trials to confirm its benefits for specific conditions.

Last reviewed · Jun 2026

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Why It Works

Hawthorn is thought to exert its anti-atherosclerotic effects by improving endothelial function, reducing oxidative stress, and potentially influencing lipid metabolism. Its antioxidant properties may help prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a key step in atherogenesis.

How it works in more detail

The active compounds in hawthorn, primarily flavonoids (e.g., vitexin, rutin, hyperoside) and proanthocyanidins, are believed to exert antioxidant effects. These compounds may help reduce oxidative stress, which is implicated in cardiovascular disease. Proposed mechanisms include improving coronary blood flow, enhancing myocardial contractility, and exhibiting mild vasodilation. Some research also suggests an ability to modulate lipid metabolism and reduce inflammation, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.

How to use

Always consult a qualified clinician.

Editorial guidance

Suggested dosage
Extracts standardized to proanthocyanidins (e.g., 80-300 mg daily) or flavonoids (e.g., 10-30 mg daily) are often used, typically divided into 2-3 doses. Dried berries or teas are also consumed.
Typical forms
capsule, tablet, liquid extract, tea, tincture
Medication interactions
  • Beta-blockers
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Nitrates
  • Digoxin
  • Anticoagulants
  • Antihypertensives
Avoid if
  • Pregnant
  • Breastfeeding
  • Scheduled for surgery (due to potential anticoagulant effects)

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Suggested dosage

Extracts standardized to proanthocyanidins (e.g., 80-300 mg daily) or flavonoids (e.g., 10-30 mg daily) are often used, typically divided into 2-3 doses. Dried berries or teas are also consumed.

General guidance — discuss specifics with a clinician.

Active medicinal compounds

Flavonoids (e.g., vitexin, rutin, hyperoside), oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), triterpene acids (e.g., ursolic acid, oleanolic acid), phenolic acids.

Traditional use

Hawthorn has a long history of traditional use in European and Chinese medicine for heart-related ailments, including irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and chest pain. It was also used as a digestive aid and for kidney problems.

Safety

Safety warnings

Hawthorn is generally considered safe for most adults when taken orally for short periods. Side effects are usually mild and may include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and headache.

Avoid if

  • Pregnant
  • Breastfeeding
  • Scheduled for surgery (due to potential anticoagulant effects)

Medication interactions

  • Beta-blockers
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Nitrates
  • Digoxin
  • Anticoagulants
  • Antihypertensives

Reported side effects

  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Sweating
  • Palpitations

General guidance — discuss specifics with a clinician.

Evidence ecosystem

Scientific literature, clinical guidance, government sources, ongoing research, traditional use, and lived experience — grouped by source type and quality.

No indexed evidence yet. We're still building out this remedy's evidence ecosystem.

Limitations: A significant limitation is the lack of specific, high-quality, peer-reviewed human clinical trials directly linking hawthorn berry to the treatment or prevention of atherosclerosis in the provided context. Existing general literature often points to a need for larger, well-designed studies to establish efficacy, optimal dosages, and long-term safety.

This page is educational. Statements use phrases like "may support" and "has been studied for"because no remedy here is approved to cure, treat, or reverse any condition. Discussion happens on the ailment pages — community statistics here are derived from those reports. Always consult a qualified clinician.

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