Hawthorne Berry

Botanical: Crataegus oxyacantha (also called Crataegus laevigata and Crataegus monogyna)
Family: Rosaceae (rose)

Other common names:  Crataegus, English Hawthorn, Mayflower, May Bush, Mayblossom, Quickset, May Tree, Whitethorn, Thorn-apple Tree, Quickthorn

Hawthorne Berries contain powerful antioxidants and natural bioflavonoids that support the health of the entire cardiovascular system. This herb can actually help regulate both high and low blood pressure, in addition to slowly breaking down cholesterol and fat deposits in the body.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Hawthorne Berry comes from a small, spiny tree that is indigenous to all of Europe, the Mediterranean region, including northwest Africa and west and central Asia, and it now grows in many areas of North America.  The genus name, Crataegus, is derived from the Greek word, kratos, referring to the hardness of the tree's wood.  In Celtic folklore, fairies were said to congregate in Hawthorne groves.   Throughout history, Hawthorne has had its reputation both as a symbol of hope, and as a symbol of evil.  At one time, Christianity regarded the plant as sacred, due to the belief that it furnished Jesus Christ's Crown of Thorns.  Both the Greeks and Romans associated Hawthorne with marriage and fertility. Hawthorne Berries have been used since the nineteenth century to support the heart and

to regulate cardiovascular functions.  Today, Hawthorne Berries are one of the most popular herbs used in Europe, and they are gaining wider acceptance in the United States.  Primary chemical constituents of this herb include vitamin C, bioflavonoids (quercetin, quercetrin), glycosides, proanthocyanidins, anthocyanidins, saponins, tannins and cratetegin (more prevalent in the flowers and the leaves than the berries).  Hawthorne Berries appear to work best when taken as a preventative herb, possibly helping reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.  With its high content of bioflavonoids, Hawthorne Berries support the heart.  Hawthorne increases the body's ability to utilize oxygen and

the heart's ability to utilize calcium.  This herb can actually help regulate both high and low blood pressure, in addition to slowly breaking down cholesterol and fat deposits in the body.  The bioflavonoids help to strengthen the contractive force of the heart and gently

dilate and relax the coronary blood vessels, improving overall circulation.  For this reason, Hawthorne Berries have been used to lower high blood pressure and high cholesterol, as well as increase low blood pressure.  When used to support weight loss programs, Hawthorne Berries can help to reduce water retention by expelling excess salt from the body.  This botanical has also been known to reduce nervous tension, alleviate insomnia and aid digestion.  Hawthorne is also believed to strengthen joint lining, collagen and spinal discs. 

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, one (1) to two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
If diagnosed with angina, cardiac arrhythmias or congestive heart failure, use Hawthorne Berry only under the supervision of a physician.  Large amounts (more than the recommended dosage) of Hawthorne Berry may result in sedation or dramatic drop in blood pressure.  Signs of overdose include hypotension and arrhythmias.  Using Hawthorne may potentiate the effects of some pharmaceutical heart medications - consult with your physician before using this product, as the medication dosage may need to be lowered.  Use with caution in cases of colitis and ulcers.  Children and pregnant or nursing women should not use Hawthorne Berry unless directed by a physician. Taking Hawthorne and medicines used to treat or prevent blood clots together may cause your blood to be too thin, making you bleed or bruise more easily.  Also, taking Hawthorne and Sulfinpyrazon (which is used to treat gout and may also be used to treat certain blood diseases) together may cause your blood to be too thin.

Capsule Information:
Our Hawthorne Berry supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.