Hawthorn berries have been used by humans for thousands of years. They were prevalent in North America and were used by doctors early in the 19th century to treat circulatory disorder and respiratory problems. Hawthorn is still used for those purposes and others, and its use is relatively safe. Few side effects are associated with the herb. However, problems can arise when hawthorn berries are consumed in a dangerous quantity or in the wrong conditions.
Hawthorn Side Effects
Hawthorn berries' side effects are rare, according to the National Center for Contemporary and Alternative Medicine. Side effects are more likely to happen when hawthorn is taken in high doses. Individuals might experience headaches, nausea and a racing heart. These side effects are usually avoided if you do not exceed more than 1,800mg daily and do not take hawthorn for more than 24 straight weeks, as advised by the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Heart Disease Risk
Hawthorn berries have been shown to be effective at treating heart disease, according to the National Center for Contemporary and Alternative Medicine, but heart disease is a serious condition that should not be self-treated. If you want to take hawthorn berries to treat heart disease, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends consulting a doctor and to take doses according to medical instruction.
Pregnancy Risk
Hawthorn berry is not recommended for use by women who are pregnant or nursing, because of the effects it can have on the child, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Body Changes
Physiological changes are rare, but can occur while taking hawthorn, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you take the herb and experience an increase of pain, fatigue when walking or exercising, or more frequent angina attacks, stop taking hawthorn immediately and seek medical attention.
Potential Interactions
Hawthorn can pose a health risk to individuals taking certain medication, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Hawthorn should be avoided by any individuals taking digoxin--a medication for irregular heart rhythms--or beta-blockers, which lower blood pressure. The effects of beta-blockers can be amplified to dangerous levels when taken in conjunction with hawthorn, as can calcium channel blockers, which are taken to treat angina. Phenylephrine, which is a drug that constricts blood vessels and is frequently found in nasal decongestants, should also not be taken while taking hawthorn.
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