Hawthorn is a showy shrub bearing small, glossy red or black berries that thrive well into the cold days of winter. The hawthorn berry, as well as other parts of the tree, have been used medicinally since the first century, states the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). There's good scientific evidence to support hawthorn as a natural way to address congestive heart failure in the earlier stages.
Background
Native to northern Europe, hawthorn berry trees are now grown all over the world, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.The hawthorn berry tree may also be referred to by its other common names, to include English hawthorn, harthorne, haw and hawthorne. Historically, hawthorn was used to treat heart disease, but in the 1800s, doctors in the U.S. used it for circulatory problems and respiratory ailments, states the UMMC. Modern application of hawthorn maintains its tradition in treating heart failure and coronary artery disease, according to NCCAM.
Properties
The bioflavonoids in hawthorn make it exert its effect when used for cardiac conditions, says the University of Michigan Health System. These bioflavonoids, rich in antioxidants, are derived from the plant's leaves and flowers. Hawthorn can maintain better blood flow in the coronary arteries, help the heart pump better and provide better circulation to the extremities. Hawthorn may also reduce high blood pressure, but only slightly. University of Michigan cautions that it should not be used in lieu of conventional medications for this purpose, but there is "reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit" to support hawthorn for use in early-stage congestive heart failure.
Preparations & Use
Hawthorn products are sold in capsules, solid extracts and various liquid preparations. The hawthorn's leaves, flowers and berries can be brewed into a tea. Hawthorn is not for children, nor should you take hawthorn if you're pregnant of breastfeeding, cautions the UMMC. Heart conditions are serious and should never be treated yourself using hawthorn or any other natural remedy; you should only take it after receiving your doctor's permission.
Cautions
According to the UMMC, hawthorn is considered a safe herbal remedy when used at recommended dosages and rarely has side effects. These may present as headache, nausea and heart palpitations. If you take hawthorn and experience more angina attacks or increased exhaustion during physical activity, stop taking it and contact your doctor immediately.
Concerns
Like any herbal remedy, hawthorn may interact with medications that you're already taking. According to the UMMC, hawthorn should not be used without a doctor's consent if you take digoxin, beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers and phenylephrine, a drug used in nasal decongestants.
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