Plant MedicineHawthorn

Hawthorn

Crataegus monogyna

Family: Rosaceae

Also known as: Common hawthorn, Quickthorn, Whitethorn, May tree, Mayblossom

At a glance

Best for: Heart health, Heart failure support, Blood pressure, Atherosclerosis, Anxiety
Parts used: Berries, Flowers, Leaves
Common forms: Capsule, Extract, Tea, Tincture
Evidence level: Well-supported
Cautions: Avoid with digoxin without medical supervision; Start low dose if on cardiac medications
Cardiovascular
Nervous
Capsule
Extract
Tea
Tincture
Europe
North Africa
Western Asia

What it is

Hawthorn is a thorny shrub or small tree whose berries, flowers, and leaves are all used medicinally. The active compounds are primarily oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs) and flavonoids including vitexin, quercetin, and hyperoside. These compounds improve coronary blood flow, reduce peripheral resistance, and act as antioxidants.

Traditional use

Used in European herbal medicine for centuries for heart conditions. Associated with May Day celebrations in Celtic tradition. Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for digestive and cardiovascular complaints. Mentioned in herbals dating to the 13th century.

What modern research suggests (Well-supported)

Multiple RCTs demonstrate improved exercise tolerance in NYHA Class II heart failure. A large meta-analysis of 14 trials showed significant improvement in exercise tolerance, reduced breathlessness and fatigue, and reduced peripheral resistance. Blood pressure lowering confirmed in multiple trials. Anti-atherosclerotic effects demonstrated.

How people use it

For cardiovascular support: standardised extract (WS 1442 or equivalent) 300–600mg twice daily. Takes 6–8 weeks of regular use to show full benefit. As tea: steep 1 teaspoon of dried berries or flowers for 10 minutes, 2–3 cups daily. Inform your cardiologist before starting if on heart medications.

Safety + interactions

Generally very safe with excellent long-term safety profile. May potentiate cardiac medications including digoxin and blood pressure medications—use under medical supervision if on these drugs. May cause mild headache or dizziness at very high doses.

May interact with: Digoxin, Blood pressure medications, Nitrates, PDE5 inhibitors

Name clarity note

Multiple Crataegus species are used medicinally: C. monogyna (common hawthorn), C. laevigata (Midland hawthorn), and C. oxyacantha (same as laevigata). Most clinical research uses standardised extracts from C. monogyna or C. laevigata. Products often don't distinguish between species—all appear to have similar effects.

Quality notes

Standardised hawthorn extract (WS 1442 from Crataegus laevigata) standardised to 18.75% oligomeric procyanidins is the most studied form and used in major clinical trials. Look for extracts specifying OPC (oligomeric procyanidin) content. High OPC content correlates with cardiovascular effects.

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Disclaimer: This content is educational and not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbs or supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

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