Hawthorn berries and their healing powers

Hawthorn berries and their healing powers

If you or a loved one have heart-related health concerns, you should be aware of natural herbs that support heart health. Among these useful herbs, hawthorn berry is the most commonly used and effective. It has been valued for its culinary and therapeutic value for centuries. While its popularity has waned in the United States, the herb is popular throughout Europe for promoting normal heart health. Research confirms that the heart-related benefits of hawthorn berries include reduced chest pain, normal blood pressure, normal cholesterol levels, and healthy arteries. (Source 1, Source 2)

How Hawthorn Berry Works

The main parts of the hawthorn tree - berries, leaves, seeds and flowers - have therapeutic value. Each is packed with beneficial flavonoids, oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), saponins, phenolic acids and other phytonutrients that promote health and stimulate internal healing mechanisms.

Promotes a healthy heart

The flavonoids and OPCs in hawthorn berries are specific nutrients to support a healthy heart. They are powerful antioxidants that help reduce free radicals, promote blood circulation, and support normal artery health. These heart-related benefits are the main reason hawthorn has such a long history of use. ((link removed))

Heart failure, which comes in two forms - diastolic and systolic - routinely results in injury or death. Diastolic is when the heart cannot fill with blood properly, systolic is when the heart cannot pump blood efficiently. In a study of over 800 patients with chronic heart failure, hawthorn berry provided significant benefit. ((link removed))

Supports normal blood pressure

29 percent of adults in the U.S. suffer from high blood pressure, and all signs point to that number continuing to rise. High blood pressure can damage blood vessels and, if uncontrolled, can even lead to a heart attack or stroke. Several studies have found that hawthorn can promote balanced blood pressure. ((Link removed), (Link removed))

Promotes balanced cholesterol

There is good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL). Accumulation of bad cholesterol can lead to serious health complications. High cholesterol can double your risk of heart disease. Studies suggest that hawthorn berries support normal cholesterol levels. An animal study found that extracts of the plant given to rabbits with high cholesterol helped lower cholesterol levels. In another study with mice, hawthorn berry reduced LDL levels. ((Link removed), (Link removed), (Link removed))

Antioxidant activity of hawthorn

The primary antioxidant activity of this herb comes from two compounds – flavonoids and OPCs. They support a healthy heart and can support your health in other ways too. Antioxidants protect against free radicals. Uncontrolled free radicals damage cells, cause aging and impair well-being. ((link removed))

Other benefits of the hawthorn berry

Hawthorn berries not only support heart health. It has a long history in folk medicine and Ayurveda to support overall health in many functions, including digestive health and skin health. In one study, hawthorn berry showed gastro-protective benefits in mice. In another study, hawthorn supported the development of healthy skin cells. ((Link removed), (Link removed))

Hawthorn Berry Side Effects and Precautions

With some limitations, hawthorn berry is generally safe to consume. Most studies reported few or no side effects. However, possible side effects include headache, nausea and irregular heartbeat. As a general precaution, pregnant or breastfeeding women and children should not take hawthorn berries. If you are taking any medications or have heart problems, consult your trusted doctor before taking hawthorn berries. ((link removed))

Available forms of hawthorn

Hawthorn Extract is a source of plant-based nutrition to support health and offers the best value. It is available as a powder, capsule or liquid. Hawthorn berry usually refers to the herbal extract as a product of the entire plant, not just the berries. Some researchers use only the flowers and leaves of the plant because of their higher concentration of flavonoids.

Beyond its therapeutic value, hawthorn berries are enjoyed around the world in the form of sweets, jams, jellies and even wine. The tender spring leaves are edible and make a wonderful salad garnish. Berry size, color and name vary from region to region. Small, tart red berries called mayhaw are found in the United States. Mayhaw is native to many southeastern states and has a rich tradition of culinary use. Mayhaw jelly is considered a delicacy, and the syrup from the berries is used to make sauce, pie filling, and desserts. While the plant was once easy to find in the wild, it is rapidly disappearing due to deforestation and disease.

Natural Ways to Promote a Healthy Heart

While hawthorn berries provide specific nutrition to support a healthy heart, lifestyle is also important. Heart-healthy eating, regular exercise and stress management are effective, long-term strategies for promoting a healthy heart.