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"Hawthorn - A Prickly Bush That Is Good For The Heart!"
The Hawthorn plant most often referenced in the medical literature refers to either of the two abovementioned species. It is a prickly plant commonly found in western Asia, Europe, and northwestern Africa. The plant has a rich history and was reputedly thought to be the plant used for Christ's crown of thorns. A variety of this plant is considered to be the “burning bush” that Moses used in the Old Testament to communicate with God on Mount Horeb. It has been used for medicinal purposes as far back as medieval times and was once considered sacred. Today, Hawthorn is used primarily to treat cardiovascular and circulatory disorders. Numerous studies have shown it improves blood flow to the heart by strengthening the heart's contractions. Dr. Atkins, in his book, Dr. Atkins Vita-nutrient Solution, calls this herb 'the wise man's digitalis', attesting to its effectiveness as a treatment for various heart problems. Physicians in Europe and China use this herb to treat Congestive Heart Failure in its early stages. In fact, Chinese experiments have found it to be a functional treatment for reducing cholesterol levelsand lowering blood pressure making it a practical treatment for Arteriosclerosis. In Germany, this herb, along with most other herbs, must first be approved as medicines by Commission E, the German equivalent of the Food and Drug Administration we have here in the United States. The leaves of this plant contain a mixture of Flavanoids that are thought to be responsible for its beneficial medicinal effects. Flavanoids are powerful plant pigments functioning as antioxidants, helping to reduce or prevent damage to the arterial walls. It is thought to improve coronary blood flow as well as blood flow to the extremities. Research Studies
For eight weeks, each participant's output on an ergometer bicycle was measured. One group was given Hawthorn extract 3 times daily while the other group was given a placebo. The group taking this herb exhibited less shortness of breath and overall fatigue than the placebo group. In another double-blind study, it was found to be as effective as the ACE inhibitor Captopril without any of the side effects. Ace inhibitors help to lower blood pressure by inhibiting the release of angiotensin II, a chemical that causes constriction of the arteries. Additionally, out of six clinical trials, four of these found the participants had significantly improved heart function, while three trials found it significantly improved their ability to exercise. It has also been used as a treatment for another heart condition, Angina. Angina is a condition characterized by chest pain as a result of the heart not receiving enough oxygen. In one study, 60 Angina patients received either 180 mg. of Hawthorn extract or a placebo for three weeks. Those receiving the herbal extract were able to exercise for longer periods as a result of improved blood flow to the heart. In another study, individuals with Congestive Heart Failure were given 160 to 190 mg. of this herb daily, for eight weeks. They were able to exercise with minimal fatigue and shortness of breath. In an analysis of 14 randomized, clinical trials involving 855 patients researchers found that it:
The researchers felt that, when used along with conventional therapies, additional benefits could be seen. Dosage As a treatment for Congestive Heart Failure, adults should take 160 to 900 mg standardized to 4 to 20 mg flavonoids/30 to 160 mg oligomeric procyanidins daily for six weeks. Then dropping down to 120 mg. standardized 3 times daily for an additional six weeks. When taken for Angina or Congestive Heart Failure, it may take up to six weeks before any effect is noted. It may also be taken in tincture form in the amount of 4 to 5 ml. three times daily. Cautions The FDA considers this herb to be a herb of undefined safety. It is not recommended children take this herb. If you are taking prescription heart medications or have a heart condition, do not use it without consulting your physician. Pregnant or nursing women should not take this herb. Side Effects This herb could cause vomiting, nausea, and fatigue. An overdose of Hawthorn could cause a sudden drop of blood pressure and vertigo. Subscribe to the Home Remedies Blog by clicking on this link:  Return from Hawthorn to Home Page
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Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata or Crataegus monogyna)
A double-blind study of 143 patients with Cardiac Failure illustrates its usefulness for this condition.
