# 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

### 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.

### Does hawthorn work as a natural ACE inhibitor?

Yes, hawthorn demonstrates ACE-inhibiting activity through its key bioactive compounds. Oligomeric procyanidins and flavonoids such as vitexin inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is responsible for producing angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. By reducing ACE activity, hawthorn helps lower vascular resistance and supports blood pressure management. This mechanism is similar in principle to pharmaceutical ACE inhibitor drugs, though hawthorn's effect is milder. This is also why caution is advised when combining hawthorn with prescribed ACE inhibitor medications.

### Can hawthorn reduce systolic blood pressure effectively?

A meta-analysis of six randomised controlled trials involving 428 participants found that Crataegus species extracts significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 6.65 mmHg over treatment periods ranging from 10 weeks to 6 months. While this reduction is modest, it is clinically meaningful for individuals with mild or first-stage hypertension. The effect was more pronounced in trials lasting 4–6 months, suggesting consistency of use is important. Hawthorn is not a replacement for prescribed antihypertensive therapy but may complement a broader cardiovascular health strategy.

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

Hawthorn is generally considered safe, with a favourable tolerability profile in clinical research. A safety review of over 37 clinical studies reported that adverse events were predominantly minor and included mild gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea or stomach upset, along with occasional mild cardiac symptoms. Serious adverse events were not commonly reported. However, because hawthorn affects cardiovascular function through ACE inhibition and calcium channel modulation, individuals with heart conditions or those taking cardiac medications should seek medical advice before use to avoid potential interactions.

### Does hawthorn have antioxidant properties?

Yes, hawthorn contains a range of phenolic compounds including flavonoids and proanthocyanidins that demonstrate antioxidant activity in vitro. These compounds help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which is linked to endothelial damage and cardiovascular disease progression. While in vitro evidence is promising, it is important to note that antioxidant effects observed in laboratory settings do not always translate directly to the same magnitude of effect in the human body. The cardiovascular benefits of hawthorn documented in clinical trials are most strongly attributed to its ACE-inhibiting and vasodilatory mechanisms.

### How much hawthorn should I take for blood pressure?

Clinical studies typically use 160-900mg of standardized hawthorn extract daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Most blood pressure studies used 300-600mg daily for 4-6 months to achieve the documented 6.65 mmHg reduction in systolic pressure.

### How long does hawthorn take to lower blood pressure?

Blood pressure benefits typically emerge after 4-6 weeks of consistent use, with maximum effects seen at 4-6 months. Studies show longer treatment duration correlates with stronger cardiovascular benefits compared to short-term use.

### Can hawthorn interact with heart medications?

Yes, hawthorn can potentiate cardiac medications including digoxin, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers, potentially causing excessive effects. Always consult your cardiologist before combining hawthorn with prescription heart medications to avoid dangerous interactions.

### What are the active compounds in hawthorn?

Hawthorn's primary bioactive compounds are oligomeric procyanidins (1-3%) and flavonoids including vitexin, rutin, and hyperoside. These compounds work synergistically to inhibit ACE, block calcium channels, and enhance nitric oxide production for cardiovascular support.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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