Hawthorne berry (Crataegus oxyacantha) information

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.

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 (return to homepage).