When taken at recommended doses, the side effects of hawthorn are minimal. Hawthorn, a shrub, is part of the rose family. Herbalists sometimes use its leaves, berries and flowers to treat hypertension, or high blood pressure and heart disease. As of 2010, few studies confirm hawthorn's positive effect on hypertension. In the January 2002 issue of "Psychotherapy Research," Dr. Ann Walker writes that a group of mildly hypertensive patients given hawthorn experienced decreases in both systolic and diastolic pressure rates. But in the same study, patients given a placebo also experienced a decrease in both systolic and diastolic pressure. A patient should always consult his physician prior to beginning a hawthorn regimen.
Allergic Reactions
Hawthorn supplements are derived from different parts of the plant, including its berries and flowers. Consequently, patients with environmental allergies may experience an allergic reaction to the supplement. According to Drug Information Online, symptoms include rash, hives and itching. In severe cases, a person taking hawthorn supplements can experience swelling, have trouble breathing, have chest tightness, weakness or an irregular heartbeat. A person experiencing severe allergy symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Nausea and Dizziness
Nausea and dizziness are common side effects of hawthorn. In the March 2002 issue of the "American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy," Janene Rigelsky writes that the side effects may occur at "therapeutic dosages." According to Rigelsky, the recommended total daily dose for hawthorn is 160 to 900 mg. The total dosage can be broken down into three smaller doses. Rigelsky recommends that the supplement be derived from the hawthorn flowers or leaves for the most positive benefit.
Drug Interactions
Patients taking prescription drugs should be especially cognizant of any potential side effects that occur when taking hawthorn. In his book "Integrative Medicine," Dr. David Rakel writes that patients taking digitalis, heart failure medication, should consult with a physician prior to taking hawthorn. Patients taking other heart disease medication such as beta blockers or digoxin should also consult with a physician prior to taking hawthorn, as should anyone taking certain high blood pressure medication, including diltiazem and nifedipine.
References
- "Psychotherapy Research"; Promising Hypotensive Effect of Hawthorn Extract; Ann F. Walker, Ph.D.; January 2002
- Drug Information Online: Hawthorn
- "American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy"; Hawthorn: Pharmacology and Therapeutic Uses; Janene M. Rigelsky, Pharm.D.; March 2002
- "Integrative Medicine"; David P. Rakel, M.D.; February 2007
