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Crataegus (Hawthorn Berry/Leaf/Flower)
Traditional heart tonic with evidence for mild heart failure, blood pressure support, and cardiovascular health.
What the evidence says
Hawthorn helped in about half (4/6) of the studies that measured an effect — promising, but not unanimous.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 2005–2026 with a typical study size of 79 participants.
Based on 28 studies · 5 meta-analyses · 16 RCTs · 45,933 total participants
Confidence
HighWhat the studies found
By outcome
Hawthorn has an evidence score of 7.5/10 — strong evidence based on 28 indexed studies, including 5 meta-analyses. Traditional heart tonic with evidence for mild heart failure, blood pressure support, and cardiovascular health.
The commonly studied dose of Hawthorn is 160-900mg extract (standardized to 2-3% flavonoids or 18-20% OPCs). Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 600mg, with a minimum effective dose near 300mg. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
The best time to take Hawthorn is with meals. Taking it with food is preferred. Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) contains oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), flavonoids (vitexin, hyperoside), and triterpenic acids that support cardiovascular function via positive inotropic effects, vasodilation, and antioxidant activity.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 32 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Hawthorn is a thorny shrub whose berries, leaves, and flowers have been used as a heart tonic for centuries. It's one of the most well-researched herbs for cardiovascular health, with clinical evidence supporting benefits in mild heart failure, blood pressure regulation, and lipid profiles. Works through multiple mechanisms to support overall heart function.
Strengthens heart muscle contractions
Relaxes blood vessels
Protects heart tissue from oxidative damage
How Hawthorn works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
160-900mg extract (standardized to 2-3% flavonoids or 18-20% OPCs)
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Standardized extract (WS 1442 or LI 132 are most studied) | Recommended |
| 💧Berry/leaf/flower tincture | Alternative |
| 🍵Dried herb tea | Alternative |
WS 1442 (Crataegutt) and LI 132 are pharmaceutical-grade extracts used in clinical trials.
Minimum: 8 weeks
Optimal: 16 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Traditionally taken 2-3 times daily. Effects build over weeks.
Based on meta-analysis showing 7-watt improvement in maximal workload. Effects primarily documented in mild heart failure patients. Most studies used WS 1442 extract standardized to 18.75% oligomeric procyanidins.
Better exercise capacity and symptoms in mild heart failure
Modest blood pressure reduction
Insufficient data; avoid
Use under medical supervision; may benefit mild heart failure
May have additive effects — use under medical supervision
May enhance blood pressure lowering
May have additive vasodilatory effects
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Monitor blood pressure
Tip: Usually resolves
Hawthorn is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset, dizziness, headache. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Hawthorn or related compounds; Concurrent use with heart medications (digoxin, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers) without medical supervision.
Olive Leaf Extract
Likely helpsOleuropein-rich extract with antiviral, antibacterial, and blood pressure-lowering effects — part of the Mediterranean diet's protective profile.
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