Hawthorn, or Crataegus oxyacantha, is a spring blooming shrub that produces bitter berries in the fall. Valued for their potential effect on heart health, herbalists use hawthorn berries primarily in the treatment of cardiac conditions. Although herbal remedies for menopause may contain hawthorn berries, there is no scientific evidence that the herb will reduce the symptoms of hot flashes. Because hawthorn can affect the heart, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and about the best course of treatment for you.
Hot Flashes
In the years immediately preceding the end of a woman's reproductive cycle, her hormones fluctuate, which may trigger hot flashes. During a hot flash, you may experience intense heat all over your body, but especially in your face, neck and chest area. You may perspire heavily and your heart may pound or race.
Hawthorn: Herbal Properties
The active constituents in hawthorn berries are flavonoids and procyanidins, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines." These components can increase coronary blood flow, making hawthorn potentially beneficial for treating a racing heart.
Potential Benefits
While there is no evidence that taking hawthorn berries will reduce the frequency or duration of hot flashes, the herb may reduce the accompanying heart palpitations suffered by some women, according to the "Botanical Medicine for Women's Health." Not all women experience palpitations or a racing heart during a hot flash, but if you do, talk to your doctor before self-medicating with hawthorn.
Dosage
The "PDR" suggests taking 160 to 900 mg of hawthorn extract per day, divided into three separate doses for treating heart conditions. No suggested dosage is available for treating hot flashes or other menopausal symptoms.
Considerations
Hawthorn may interfere with other medications, including blood pressure drugs and drugs used to treat heart conditions. Side effects are unlikely at the suggested dosage but may include arrhythmia and tremors. Sedation may occur with higher dosages. Since there is little evidence that hawthorn is beneficial in treating hot flashes and since the herb may affect your heart, use it only under a doctor's supervision.
References
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, Second Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, Ph.D., 2000
- "Botanical Medicine for Women's Health"; Kathy Abascal, B.C, J.D., Herbalist R.H., et al., 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Menopause -- Symptoms
