Hawthorn is a natural supplement derived from the fruit, leaves and flowers of the Crataegus monogyna plant. Supplements containing hawthorn are available in capsule, tincture and tea form. The use of hawthorn supplements are purported to help reduce symptoms of heart failure and high blood pressure and may help protect against heart disease. Talk with your doctor about the side effects of hawthorn supplements -- including hawthorn berry tea -- before using this natural treatment.
Upset Stomach
You may develop upset stomach side effects after consuming hawthorn berry tea. Mild stomach discomfort may include nausea, which may be accompanied by a diminished appetite. If you experience severe nausea or vomiting after drinking hawthorn berry tea, seek prompt care from your doctor -- especially if you have a pre-existing heart disease. Such side effects may be symptoms of other health problems including a heart attack or infection.
Headache and Dizziness
Headache pain or dizziness may arise following treatment with products that contain hawthorn. Episodes of dizziness may negatively affect your ability to move about normally without assistance. Additionally, headache discomfort may disrupt your ability to concentrate while at work, home or school. If these symptoms persist or become severe, contact your health care provider.
Fatigue or Sweating
Drinking hawthorn berry tea may induce side effects of fatigue. Increased fatigue may cause diminished attentiveness or activity during your daily routine. Excessive sweating may also occur and may cause your skin to appear unusually flushed or moist or damp to the touch.
Toxicity
Hawthorn contains tannins, which may cause toxicity when present in large amounts in your body. Prolonged use of hawthorn berry tea may cause unusually low blood pressure, also called hypotension, or heart rate irregularities as side effects of toxicity. Symptoms associated with hypotension and arrhythmia include dizziness, headache and shortness of breath. These side effects are also signs of a heart attack and require prompt medical intervention to prevent potentially life-threatening heart muscle damage.
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