Hawthorn: The Heart's Herbal Helper
- Lucille Fifield
- Apr 13
- 4 min read
A Natural Remedy for High Blood Pressure and Circulation Support
At Manna House, we’re passionate about sharing nature’s gentle, effective tools for healing—and few herbs have stood the test of time quite like Hawthorn. Revered for centuries as a heart tonic, this thorny little tree has become a quiet favourite among herbalists, particularly for those seeking natural support with high blood pressure and circulation.
Most people are familiar with Hawthorn’s bright red berries, which have traditionally been the go-to part of the plant for heart health. But recent research tells a different story: it turns out the leaves and flowers actually contain even higher levels of the plant’s most biologically active compounds. Still, in clinical practice, preparations made from the whole berries—rather than isolated extracts—tend to produce the best results.
So, what makes Hawthorn so special?
The secret lies in a group of powerful plant compounds called flavanols, particularly oligomeric proanthocyanidins(OPCs). These antioxidants are at the heart of Hawthorn’s ability to nourish the cardiovascular system.
Here are just a few of the ways Hawthorn supports the heart and blood vessels:
Improves blood circulation by gently dilating blood vessels, especially the coronary arteries that feed the heart. [1]
Mimics the action of calcium-channel blockers, a class of prescription drugs often used to lower blood pressure. [2]
Helps the heart utilise oxygen more efficiently, especially during periods of strain or poor circulation. [3]
Enhances the contractions of the heart muscle wall (the myocardium), helping it pump more effectively. [2]
May improve energy production in the heart, and protect it from hypoxia (oxygen deprivation). [3,4]
Supports healthy blood pressure levels by functioning as a mild diuretic, inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), and strengthening overall heart function. [5]
Perhaps even more remarkable, Hawthorn may offer some neuroprotective effects—with research suggesting it can reduce the extent of brain damage after an ischaemic stroke, especially when taken preventatively. [6]
Hedgrow hawthorn leaves foraging
Patience Yields Results
It’s important to know that Hawthorn doesn’t work overnight. It’s not a quick-fix herb—it’s more of a faithful companion on your healing journey. Most people begin to notice its effects after one to two months of consistent use, with benefits building over time. For those committed to long-term heart health, Hawthorn is a gentle but steady ally.
How to Use Hawthorn Safely and Effectively [7]
There are several ways to incorporate Hawthorn into your daily routine. Here are the most commonly used forms and recommended dosages:
Crude, Dried Berries or Flowers (as an infusion):
9,000 – 15,000 mg daily, steeped in hot water and taken as a tea.
Tincture:
12 – 15 ml per day, usually split into two or three doses.
Capsules or Tablets:
If standardised to 20% OPC and 1.8% Vitexin (from leaves or flowers):→ 160 – 900 mg per day, in divided doses.
If containing freeze-dried berries:→ 4,000 – 6,000 mg per day, in divided doses.
Note: Fluid extracts vary by manufacturer, so always follow the product’s instructions or seek guidance from a qualified herbalist.
Safety First
One of the best things about Hawthorn is its excellent safety profile. Unlike many blood pressure medications, it can be used long-term without risk of toxicity or serious side effects.[8,9]
However, there’s one important caveat: Hawthorn can enhance the effects of digitalis, a compound derived from Foxglove (commonly used in certain heart medications). If you're taking digitalis or any prescription heart medicine, always consult your medical doctor, physician or a trained medical herbalist before using Hawthorn.
At Manna House Health Education & Wellness, we believe in the power of plants as part of a balanced, whole-person approach to health. Whether you’re navigating high blood pressure, seeking to support a tired heart, or simply interested in strengthening your circulation naturally,
Hawthorn may be a wise and worthwhile addition to your wellness toolkit.
If you’d like to learn more about how to use herbs effectively—or explore our tailored health programmes—don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to walk with you on your journey to Perfect Health.
References:
[1] Schussler, M et al (1995) Myocardial effects of flavonoids from Crataegus species. Arzneimittelforschungen. 45:842-845.
[2] Stansbury,j. (1999) Sidestep heart disease. Nutrition Science News
[3] Echte, W (1960) (The effect of hawthorn extracts on the dynamics of the human heart). Aerztilche Forshung. 14 (11): 560-566.
[4] Murray, Michael T. (1993) The Healing Power of Herbs (2nd Editions). Prima Publishing, Rocklin.
[5] Yarnell E. Botanical medicines for cardiovascular disease. Altern Complement Ther. 1999;5(2):109–114.
[6] Elango, C., & Devaraj, S. N. (2010). Immunomodulatory effect of Hawthorn extract in an experimental stroke model. Journal of neuroinflammation, 7, 97. https://doi.org/10.1186/1742-2094-7-97
[8] ReutXer, H.D. (1994) Crataegus as cardiac plant. Z Phytother. 15:73-81.
[9] Holubarsch CJ, et al. (2008) The efficacy and safety of hawthorn extract in patients with heart failure: The SPICE trial. Eur J Heart Fail. 10(10):1069–1076.
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