Hawthorn berry is an herb that is used to treat heart and other cardiovascular related conditions by alternative medicine providers. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that hawthorn berry has been found effective in studies for the treatment of mild to moderate heart failure. Since hawthorn berry is an herbal remedy, patients are advised to discuss it with their doctor prior to taking it for any reason.
Side Effects
Like any prescription medication, patients can experience side effects when taking herbs. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that side effects with Hawthorn Berry are infrequent, but if they do occur patients may experience a headache, stomach upset or heart palpitations. Patients are encouraged to notify their medical provider of these side effects if they occur. HerbWisdom.com also notes that dizziness can occur if the herb is taken in higher than recommended doses. Doses that are considered safe are 160 to 1,800mg per day for 3 to 24 weeks at a time.
Drug Interactions
Hawthorn berry impacts the cardiovascular system, and therefore may have adverse interactions with some prescription medications. The University of Michigan Health System explains that when taken with Digoxin, Hawthorn berry may negatively affect the level of Digoxin in the body. Digoxin levels must be kept in tight therapeutic parameters for efficacy and safety, therefore patients who take Digoxin are not recommended to take hawthorn berry concurrently.
Hawthorn berry may also increase the effect of certain blood pressure medications, including beta blockers and calcium channel blockers. Patients who take both at the same time may experience excessively low blood pressure.
Considerations
Patients suffering from heart disease or other cardiovascular system related disorders should not attempt to self treat using hawthorn berry. This herb should always be used under the care of a physician. Medical studies regarding the use of hawthorn berry in pregnant and nursing women is limited, so the University of Maryland Medical Center advises that these women avoid taking this herb.
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