# Crataegus monogyna (Hawthorn)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/crataegus-monogyna
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 8 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Crataegus monogyna, Common Hawthorn, English Hawthorn, Oneseed Hawthorn, May, Whitethorn, Maybush, Quickthorn

## Overview

Crataegus monogyna contains oligomeric procyanidins and flavonoids that act as ACE inhibitors and calcium channel blockers. Clinical studies show it reduces systolic [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by 6.65 mmHg and supports overall cardiovascular function.

## Health Benefits

• Reduces systolic blood pressure by an average of 6.65 mmHg based on meta-analysis of 6 RCTs (n=428)
• Supports [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) with stronger effects seen in 4-6 month trials versus shorter durations
• May improve sleep disorders when used for hypertension management (preliminary evidence from one RCT)
• Modulates immune response by affecting lymphocyte subsets (animal studies only)
• Shows [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) through phenolic compounds including flavonoids and proanthocyanidins (in vitro evidence)

## Mechanism of Action

Hawthorn's oligomeric procyanidins and flavonoids like vitexin inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), reducing vasoconstriction. The compounds also block L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, promoting vasodilation. Additionally, procyanidins enhance nitric oxide production, further supporting [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) relaxation.

## Clinical Summary

A meta-analysis of 6 randomized controlled trials (n=428) demonstrated that hawthorn supplementation reduces systolic [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by an average of 6.65 mmHg. Studies lasting 4-6 months showed significantly stronger cardiovascular benefits compared to shorter-duration trials. Preliminary evidence suggests hawthorn may improve sleep disorders in hypertensive patients, though this requires further investigation. The evidence base consists primarily of small-scale RCTs with moderate methodological quality.

## Nutritional Profile

Crataegus monogyna berries and flowering tops contain a rich profile of bioactive compounds rather than significant macronutrient content, as they are used primarily as medicinal preparations rather than caloric food sources. **Key Bioactive Compounds:** • **Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs):** 1–3% in berries, up to 2–5% in flowering tops; these are the primary cardioactive constituents responsible for vasodilatory and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) effects; bioavailability is moderate, with absorption estimated at 10–20% in the upper GI tract. • **Flavonoids (total):** 1–2.5% dry weight, including **hyperoside** (quercetin-3-O-galactoside, ~0.3–0.8%), **vitexin** (apigenin-8-C-glucoside, ~0.1–0.5%), **vitexin-2"-O-rhamnoside** (~0.2–0.7%), **rutin** (~0.1–0.3%), and **quercetin** (free aglycone, trace to ~0.05%). Flavonoid glycosides have moderate oral bioavailability (~5–15%) with extensive first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). • **Phenolic acids:** chlorogenic acid (~0.2–0.6%), caffeic acid (trace amounts); contribute to overall antioxidant capacity. • **Triterpenic acids:** ursolic acid (~0.3–0.8%) and oleanolic acid (~0.1–0.4%) found primarily in berries; poorly water-soluble with low oral bioavailability (~1–5%) unless lipid-formulated. • **Vitamin C:** approximately 100–170 mg per 100 g fresh berries (varies by harvest time and cultivar), making them a notable wild source of ascorbic acid. • **Minerals:** potassium (~300–500 mg/100 g dry weight), calcium (~50–80 mg/100 g), magnesium (~30–50 mg/100 g), iron (~1–3 mg/100 g), and trace amounts of zinc and manganese. • **Dietary fiber:** approximately 10–15 g per 100 g dry berries (predominantly insoluble pectin-based fiber). • **Sugars and carbohydrates:** fresh berries contain ~15–25% total sugars (primarily fructose and glucose), with low protein (~1–2 g/100 g fresh weight) and negligible fat (<1 g/100 g). • **Amines:** trace phenylethylamine and tyramine have been reported. • **Carotenoids:** beta-carotene present at approximately 1–5 mg/100 g dry berries, contributing to the red-orange fruit pigmentation. **Standardization notes:** European Pharmacopoeia standardizes hawthorn leaf and flower extracts to contain ≥1.5% flavonoids calculated as hyperoside, or ≥6.0% OPCs for quantified extracts (e.g., WS 1442 standardized to 18.75% OPCs per dose). Most clinical trial evidence uses extracts delivering 160–900 mg extract/day providing approximately 30–170 mg OPCs daily. **Bioavailability considerations:** OPCs and flavonoid glycosides undergo extensive gut microbial metabolism; co-administration with food may enhance absorption of lipophilic triterpenes but may delay peak plasma levels of flavonoids. Aqueous and hydroethanolic preparations show differing extraction efficiencies—ethanol-water (45–70%) extracts yield significantly higher OPC and flavonoid concentrations than simple aqueous infusions.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinical studies have used 250 mg capsules of C. monogyna extract twice daily (500 mg total) for hypertension management over 2 months. Meta-analysis data suggests treatment periods of 4-6 months may provide stronger effects than shorter durations. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Hawthorn is generally well-tolerated with mild side effects including dizziness, nausea, and digestive upset in some users. It may potentiate the effects of cardiac medications including digoxin, beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors, requiring medical supervision. Hawthorn can enhance the hypotensive effects of [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) medications, potentially causing excessive blood pressure reduction. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, so use should be avoided during these periods.

## Scientific Research

A meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials (n=428) demonstrated that Crataegus species extracts significantly reduced systolic [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) over 10 weeks to 6 months of treatment. One included trial used 250 mg C. monogyna capsules twice daily for 2 months in first-stage hypertension patients, showing blood pressure reductions alongside sleep improvements. A comprehensive safety review of 23 single-herb and 14 multi-herb clinical studies reported only minor gastrointestinal and cardiac adverse events.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) has been used in European traditional medicine for cardiovascular diseases, including [blood pressure regulation](/ingredients/condition/heart-health), for centuries. It has also been traditionally employed for stress, nervousness, sleep disorders, and pain control.

## Synergistic Combinations

Coenzyme Q10, Magnesium, Garlic extract, Olive leaf extract, Hibiscus

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How does hawthorn lower blood pressure?

Hawthorn lowers blood pressure through multiple complementary mechanisms. Its oligomeric procyanidins and flavonoids, including vitexin, inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), reducing the production of angiotensin II and thereby decreasing vasoconstriction. Additionally, these compounds block L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, promoting relaxation and vasodilation. Hawthorn's procyanidins also stimulate nitric oxide production, further widening blood vessels. A meta-analysis of six RCTs (n=428) confirmed these mechanisms translate clinically, with an average systolic blood pressure reduction of 6.65 mmHg.

### How long does hawthorn take to work for blood pressure?

Clinical evidence suggests hawthorn requires consistent use over several months for optimal blood pressure effects. While some trials observed benefits within 10 weeks, meta-analysis data indicates that treatment periods of 4–6 months produce stronger cardiovascular outcomes than shorter durations. A two-month RCT using 500 mg daily of C. monogyna extract demonstrated measurable blood pressure reductions, but extended use appears necessary to maximise the full benefit. Patience and consistency are essential when using hawthorn for hypertension management.

### Can hawthorn replace blood pressure medication?

Hawthorn should not be used as a direct replacement for prescribed antihypertensive medication without medical supervision. While clinical trials demonstrate a meaningful average systolic reduction of 6.65 mmHg, this is generally modest compared to pharmaceutical agents. Hawthorn may be considered a complementary approach for mild or first-stage hypertension under healthcare provider guidance. Combining hawthorn with antihypertensive drugs, particularly ACE inhibitors, could theoretically produce additive effects, so always consult a doctor before making any changes to prescribed treatment.

### What are the side effects of hawthorn extract?

Hawthorn extract is generally well tolerated. A comprehensive safety review covering 23 single-herb and 14 multi-herb clinical studies reported only minor adverse events, primarily mild gastrointestinal complaints and occasional cardiac symptoms such as palpitations. No serious adverse events were consistently attributed to hawthorn. However, individuals with existing heart conditions, those taking cardiovascular medications, or pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use, as data in these specific populations remains limited.

### Can I take hawthorn with ACE inhibitors or heart medications?

Caution is warranted when combining hawthorn with ACE inhibitors or other antihypertensive medications. Because hawthorn's flavonoids and procyanidins independently inhibit ACE and promote vasodilation, concurrent use with prescribed ACE inhibitors or calcium channel blockers could produce additive blood pressure-lowering effects, potentially causing hypotension. Similarly, combining hawthorn with digoxin or other cardiac drugs may theoretically enhance or alter their effects. Always disclose hawthorn use to your healthcare provider before combining it with any cardiovascular medication.

### What part of the hawthorn plant is used in supplements?

Hawthorn supplements are typically derived from the berries, leaves, and flowers of Crataegus species, including Crataegus monogyna. The leaves and flowers tend to contain the highest concentrations of flavonoids, such as vitexin and hyperoside, while the berries are particularly rich in oligomeric procyanidins. Most standardised commercial extracts are concentrated from the leaves and flowers to ensure consistent levels of the active phytochemicals responsible for hawthorn's cardiovascular and antioxidant effects.

### Does hawthorn have antioxidant properties?

Yes, hawthorn demonstrates significant antioxidant activity attributable to its phenolic compounds, including flavonoids and proanthocyanidins. In vitro studies show these compounds scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which may contribute to cardiovascular protection by limiting oxidative damage to blood vessel walls. While this antioxidant activity is well characterised in laboratory settings, direct clinical evidence linking hawthorn's antioxidant effects to specific health outcomes in humans remains limited and requires further investigation.

### Can hawthorn support immune health?

Preliminary evidence from animal studies suggests hawthorn may modulate immune function by influencing lymphocyte subsets, indicating a potential immunoregulatory role. However, these findings are currently limited to preclinical research and have not been confirmed in robust human clinical trials. It would be premature to recommend hawthorn specifically for immune support based on current evidence. Its primary evidence-based application remains cardiovascular health, particularly blood pressure management. Human studies are needed before immune-related claims can be substantiated.

### What are the proven benefits of hawthorn for heart health?

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) supports cardiovascular health through multiple mechanisms. Its oligomeric procyanidins and flavonoids act as ACE inhibitors, reducing vasoconstriction, while also blocking L-type calcium channels to promote vasodilation. Additionally, procyanidins enhance nitric oxide production for further vascular relaxation. A meta-analysis of six RCTs (n=428) confirmed a meaningful reduction in systolic blood pressure of 6.65 mmHg. Effects appear stronger with longer treatment durations of 4–6 months compared to shorter trials, suggesting hawthorn works best as a sustained cardiovascular support supplement.

### Can hawthorn help with sleep problems?

There is preliminary evidence suggesting hawthorn may improve sleep quality alongside its blood pressure benefits. One RCT included in a meta-analysis of Crataegus extracts reported sleep improvements in first-stage hypertension patients taking 250 mg C. monogyna extract twice daily over 2 months. The mechanism linking hawthorn to sleep is not yet fully established, and this evidence is limited to a single trial. More dedicated research is needed before hawthorn can be confidently recommended specifically for sleep disorders.

### Is hawthorn safe to take long-term?

A comprehensive safety review covering 23 single-herb and 14 multi-herb clinical studies found that hawthorn is generally well tolerated, with only minor adverse events reported. These primarily involved mild gastrointestinal symptoms and occasional cardiac-related effects. Clinical trials have used hawthorn extract for up to 6 months without significant safety concerns. However, long-term data beyond 6 months remains limited. Anyone considering extended use, particularly those with existing cardiovascular conditions or taking medications, should consult a healthcare provider before continuing supplementation.

### What is the recommended dose of hawthorn extract for cardiovascular support?

Clinical research has used 250 mg capsules of C. monogyna extract taken twice daily, totalling 500 mg per day, for cardiovascular and blood pressure support over a 2-month period. Meta-analysis data indicates that treatment periods of 4–6 months may yield stronger cardiovascular effects than shorter durations. Dosing can vary depending on the extract standardisation and formulation, so it is important to follow product labelling and consult a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate dose for your individual health needs.

## References

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=crataegus+monogyna

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