Products
Hawthorn is commercially available in the form of film-coated tablets, capsules, as drops, and as a tea, among others (e.g., Zeller Herz, Cardiplant, Sidroga Weissdorn, Vogel Crataegisan). Scientifically well documented are standardized extracts such as WS 1442.
Stem plant
Hawthorn, of the rose family, is a thorny shrub or small tree native to Europe. Several species are used as medicinal plants, including , and .
Medicinal drug
Hawthorn leaves with flowers (Crataegi folium cum flore), hawthorn flowers (Crataegi flos), hawthorn leaves (Crataegi folium), and hawthorn fruits (Crataegi fructus) are used as medicinal roe. Liquid and dry extracts are prepared from the medicinal drug using solvents such as ethanol.
Ingredients
The main ingredients include:
- Oligomeric procyanidins (OPC)
- Flavonoids
- Triterpenes
- Phenolic carboxylic acids
Effects
Hawthorn extracts (ATC C01EP01) have antioxidant, cardioprotective, vasodilator, antihypertensive, antiarrhythmic, positive inotropic, positive dromotropic, and negative bathmotropic properties, among others. They increase coronary and myocardial blood flow and decrease peripheral vascular resistance. This strengthens the heart and improves oxygenation of the body.
Indications for use
In the case of a decrease in the efficiency of the heart, which is accompanied by a slight limitation of physical capacity (heart failure NYHA stage II). In nervous heart complaints. In addition, other indications exist, such as high blood pressure (no official indication).
Dosage
According to the professional information. The dosage depends on the product. Hawthorn extracts are usually taken twice a day (morning and evening), regardless of meals. They must be administered regularly and over a long period of time. The effects appear after about three to six weeks.
Contraindications
Hawthorn is contraindicated in hypersensitivity and should not be given to children under 12 years of age. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions are not known.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, feeling weak, and skin rashes.