Hawthorn
Updated Mar. 01st, 2022
Hawthorn is a cardiotonic herb which means that it supports the functioning of the heart and vascular system. It is a unique herb because it can be used for both high and low blood pressure. Its blood pressure regulating effect is mediated by several components of the herb. Hawthorn, especially the berries, contains bioflavinoids.
Bioflavinoids repair damaged vessels and dilate vessels in the heart and extremities. This regulates blood pressure and also improves heart pain (angina) and leg pain (peripheral vascular disease) that are due to lack of blood flow.
Hawthorn also influences the angiotensin-converting enzyme, an enzyme that regulates blood pressure by balancing the amount of fluid in the vessels. Other antioxidants in hawthorn, called proanthocyanidins, decrease spasms in the blood vessels and reduce the build up of plaque in the arteries. Finally hawthorn improves heart functioning without altering the amount of blood going through the heart. This makes hawthorn a good choice for the treatment of mild heart failure.
Hawthorn supplements are found as loose herb, encapsulated herb, tincture and liquid extract. Hawthorn products should be standardized as an assurance that they contain hawthorn and that there are some active ingredients present at the time of processing. Hawthorn can be found in combination products for cardiovascular health.
Everyone who takes hawthorn should watch for signs of low blood pressure such as faintness, dizziness and headache. Due to hawthorn’s cardiovascular effects, individuals who use heart medication or blood pressure regulating medication should use hawthorn with caution. Pregnant women due to the risk of hypotension should not use hawthorn.