Hawthorn is a type of herb which has been known for its healing properties since as far back as the Ancient Greeks, who found that hawthorn was helpful for the heart. This herb was also widely used in the 1890s as a tincture for those suffering from heart disease.
Health Benefits of Hawthorn Supplements
Hawthorn supplements are available from most health food stores and pharmacies and are derived from either the plant's leaves, flowers, red berries or as a combination of all three parts. In Healing Supplements, Lakin et al. (2006) highlight health benefits and healing properties associated with hawthorn supplements, to include the following:
- relieves angina chest pain
- lowers high blood pressure
- helps heart pump more efficiently in heart disease patients
- corrects cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
- dilates blood vessels
- increases heart's energy supply
- acts as a potent antioxidant
- widens arteries
- blocks enzymes that weaken heart muscle
- has a calming effect
- can be used as a sleeping aid for insomniacs
Hawthorn Supplements – Forms and Dosage
Hawthorn supplements come in five different forms, including as a capsule, dried herb (for herbal tea), powder, tablet and tincture. The supplement is most commonly found as a tablet or capsule, with Brewer (2010) recommending between 500 to 1,200 mg a day and dividing larger doses into three. It is important to understand that hawthorn extracts may not show positive effects for the first one or two months.
Lakin et al. (2006) recommend taking between a teaspoon and a tablespoon of hawthorn tincture a day, depending on the type of heart condition one is suffering from, while those deemed at risk for heart disease may take a daily teaspoon of the tincture as a preventative measure. The treatment is believed to be most effective when it is divided into doses taken at three different times during the day.
Side Effects of Hawthorn Extracts
According to Brewer (2010), hawthorn extracts should only be used under medical supervision, although it is recognised as one of the safest forms of herbal remedies. Side effects are rare, but may include the following:
- nausea
- sweating
- fatigue
- dizziness
- skin rashes
In addition, those taking heart medications may require their dosage to be altered whilst taking hawthorn extracts, making it especially important to seek regular medical supervision throughout treatment. Prescribed drugs must not be stopped or changed without a doctor's advice, as this can be potentially very serious.
As highlighted above, hawthorn extracts are particularly helpful for those with heart problems, including angina, high blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia and weakened heart muscles. Hawthorn supplements are also helpful for insomnia sufferers and have a calming effect on the body.
Sources:
Brewer, S. (2010) The Essential Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Herbal Supplements London: Constable Robinson
Lakin et al. (2006) Healing Supplements London: Reader's Digest
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
Join the Conversation