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  Source:
Hawthorne berry (Crataegus oxyacantha) - is found in Europe, North
Africa and wester Asia. The herb grows has a small thorny tree belonging
to the rose family with distinctive reddish fruits. The herb as
been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
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Physiology:
Extract form Hawthorne berries contain a variety of flavonoids
and proanthocyanidins that are powerful antioxidants which exert
a beneficial effect on the entire cardiovascular system. The herb
is also responsible for a dilating effect on the blood vessels that
results in a lower blood pressure and a decrease incidence of angina.
Recent clinical studies have shown promise in the use of Hawthorne
for the treatment of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF).
Clinical
Studies:
There has been a significant number of clinical studies that conclude
Hawthorne berry is effective in the treatment of congestive heart
failure. Leuchtgens VH. Crataegus Special Extract WS 1442 in NYHA
II heart failure. A placebo controlled randomized double-blind study.
Fortschr Med. 1993;111:36–38. Tauchert M, Siegel G, Schulz
V. Hawthorn extract as plant medication for the heart; a new evaluation
of its therapeutic effectiveness [translated from German]. MMW Munch
Med Wochenschr. 1994;136(suppl 1):S3–S5.
Modern
day uses:
Hawthorne seems to work in two main ways. For one, it dilates the
blood vessels, especially the coronary arteries that nourish the
heart muscle. By this actions, it may help lower blood pressure
and reduce angina. As the arteries dilate, or open wider, pressure
throughout the blood vessel system is lowered. Hawthorne berry has
been described as the "cardio herb" secondary to the following
positive effects exerted on the cardiovascular system:
- Decreases cholesterol levels
- Decreases angina (chest pain) by dilating the cardiac blood
vessels
- Prevents congestive heart failure by improving the contractions
of the cardiac muscles, very similar to the prescription medication
Digitalis.
- Lowers blood pressure
- Promotes a regular cardiac rate and rhythm
- Improves general circulation.
- The dilating effect (hence the potential to decrease blood pressure)
of Hawthorne berry is why the herb is an important part of the
Physicians Select Weight Loss Supplement. The Hawthorne berry
reduces the potential for increased blood pressure that may result
secondary to the actions of the Ephedra and some oft he other
stimulate herbs in the Physicians' Select proprietary blend.
Precautions
and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult with
their physician particularly if they are taking prescription or
over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant
or breast feeding and children should also consult with there physician
prior to taking any new supplements. There have not been any significant
side effects reported with the use of Hawthorne berry at the time
of this writing. However, Hawthorne berry may increase the effects
of digitalis and other inotropic medications. |
