Hawthorn Berry Supplements

The hawthorn tree produces bright red berries in the latter part of summer which are harvested for use as an herbal remedy. Hawthorn, a relative of the rose, is often found along property lines as a decorative shrub. Folk names for this herb include mayflower and whitethorn; it is also sold under various trade names, such as Cardiplant and HeartCare. Hawthorn has been used medicinally by many populations of old, including the ancient Greeks and Native Americans, for treatment of heart problems.

Hawthorn Supplements

Hawthorn is a member of the scientific family Crataegus, and many of its species are used to make herbal preparations. Traditional supplements of hawthorn typically contain a combination of its leaves, flowers and berries, called haws. AltMD states hawthorn supplements are most often found as a liquid extract or capsule containing dry herb. The dosage varies, so only take hawthorn under the supervision of your health care provider. Hawthorn is a slow-acting herb and must be taken for at least six weeks before you realize its benefits.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Hawthorn is most often used in the treatment of heart problems, such as congestive heart failure, irregular heartbeat, angina, high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Hawthorn works by expanding the coronary blood vessels, which results in better blood flow to the heart, and by interacting with some heart enzymes, allowing the heart to pump more efficiently. Hawthorn's heart benefits are backed up by scientific study; "Science Daily" reports that a review of a number of clinical studies showed hawthorn can be used effectively in conjunction with conventional medication for treatment of heart disease.

Other Benefits

Being one of the oldest known herbal remedies, hawthorn also has some other uses. "Prescription for Herbal Healing" states hawthorn supplements can be used for Alzheimer's disease as it works in keeping the tiny blood vessels in the brain open. Certain compounds in hawthorn appear to be effective in stabilizing joint cartilage, reducing damage caused by arthritis. More clinical studies are needed, but hawthorn may also be effective for attention deficit disorder, anxiety, insomnia, glaucoma and fatigue associated with lupus.

Precautions

Never self-treat any disease with this herb and if your doctor recommends taking hawthorn, use only standardized supplements. If you are allergic to roses, you may not be able to take preparations containing hawthorn. Hawthorn can cause rapid heartbeat, nausea, headache, low blood pressure and dizziness, especially in higher doses. Do not take hawthorn if you are pregnant or taking nasal decongestants. If you are taking any prescription medications for heart disease, consult your doctor before adding hawthorn to your regimen.