Thehawthorn (Crataegus) has been nicknamed the "heart plant" since the 19th century. But it was only in 2025 that a rigorous meta-analysis quantified its real effectiveness on blood pressure: −6.65 mmHg systolic on average across 6 randomized clinical trials, according to Szikora et al. 2025 in Pharmaceuticals. And its unique differentiating advantage remains: it acts simultaneously on blood pressure, palpitations and anxiety. This guide breaks down the 7 scientific truths.
In brief: Hawthorn is one of the rare plants officially recognized by the EMA (European Medicines Agency) for symptomatic treatment of heart palpitations related to anxiety. According to Szikora et al. 2025 in Pharmaceuticals (meta-analysis of 6 RCTs, 428 participants), it reduces systolic pressure by 6.65 mmHg over 2-6 months. According to Du et al. 2024 in Asia Pac J Clin Nutr, a hawthorn + vitamin C beverage reduces systolic by 7.41 mmHg and diastolic by 7.93 mmHg.
Practical action: 500-900 mg/day of standardized extract for at least 8 weeks for blood pressure profiles. 300-600 mg/day for palpitations and anxiety. Tensioptine Nutrition•pro combines hawthorn with black garlic, olive leaf, rhodiola and royal jelly in complete synergy. To be combined with 300 mg/day of magnesium bisglycinate to optimize vascular relaxation and sleep.
- Hawthorn, the heart plant for 2,000 years
- −6.65 mmHg systolic: the Szikora 2025 meta-analysis
- EMA: official European recognition
- Procyanidins and flavonoids: the key active compounds
- Blood pressure + palpitations + anxiety: the winning trio
- Dosage and choice of standardized extract
- Specific profiles (stress, menopause, seniors, athletes)
- Myths and misconceptions about hawthorn
- Optimal synergies: hawthorn + other blood pressure active ingredients
1. Hawthorn, the heart plant for 2,000 years
From Dioscorides to modern clinical trials
ON HAWTHORN AND THE HEART
Thehawthorn (Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus laevigata) is a thorny shrub common in European, Asian and North African hedgerows. Mentioned by Dioscorides in his De Materia Medica in the 1st century, it has been used for 2,000 years in traditional European medicine to treat mild heart conditions, palpitations and anxiety.
According to Verma et al. 2020 in Natural Products and Bioprospecting, hawthorn is one of the most studied antihypertensive plants in the world, with over 200 scientific publications listed in PubMed. It is one of the rare plants to have maintained its therapeutic indication continuously from Antiquity to modern randomized clinical trials.
2. −6.65 mmHg systolic: the Szikora 2025 meta-analysis
6 clinical trials, 428 participants, scientific evidence 2025
(META-ANALYSIS 2025)
The major scientific publication on hawthorn and blood pressure is recent. In July 2025, the Hungarian team Szikora et al. published in Pharmaceuticals a rigorous meta-analysis according to PRISMA criteria, aggregating data from 6 randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials (428 participants in total).
Why 6.65 mmHg is significant
A reduction in systolic blood pressure of 5 mmHg is associated, according to ESC European guidelines, with a 10% reduction in overall cardiovascular risk and 13% reduction in stroke risk. A decrease of 6.65 mmHg as observed with hawthorn therefore represents a major clinical benefit, comparable to that of certain mild drug treatments (low-dose thiazide diuretics for example).
A second recent study confirms and amplifies these results. According to Du et al. 2024 in Asia Pac J Clin Nutr, a beverage combining hawthorn (278.7 mg of flavonoids) and vitamin C consumed for 40 days by workers exposed to heat reduced systolic pressure by 7.41 mmHg and diastolic pressure by 7.93 mmHg compared to placebo.
3. EMA: official European recognition
One of the rare plants with an official monograph
PALPITATIONS + ANXIETY
TheEMA (European Medicines Agency), the supreme regulatory authority of the European Union for medicines, published a community monograph on hawthorn. This is a rare status: only a few dozen medicinal plants benefit from this official European recognition, which is based on scientific evaluation of efficacy and safety.
The 2 indications validated by the EMA
The EMA monograph officially recognizes the extract of hawthorn leaves and flowers (Crataegus monogyna or Crataegus laevigata) for two distinct therapeutic indications: (1) relief of benign heart palpitations related to anxiety (medically recognized use); (2) symptomatic relief of nervous tension and moderate sleep disorders (traditional use).
This EMA recognition is a major reliability signal. This means that European scientific authorities have evaluated and validated the evidence for hawthorn's efficacy and safety for these indications. This is very different from simple "dietary supplements" without institutional oversight.
4. Procyanidins and flavonoids: the key active compounds
Hyperoside, vitexin and oligo-procyanidins
IN A QUALITY EXTRACT
The cardiovascular benefits of hawthorn are based on three families of active compounds that work synergistically. According to Zhang et al. 2013 in Journal of Ethnopharmacology, these compounds improve endothelial function, modulate inflammation and protect arteries.
The 3 families of active compounds
| Family | Examples | Main action |
|---|---|---|
| Oligo-procyanidins (OPC) | Procyanidins B2, C1 | Vasodilation, major antioxidant |
| Flavonoids | Hyperoside, vitexin, rutin | Cardioprotection, heart rate |
| Phenolic acids | Chlorogenic acid | Anti-inflammatory, metabolic |
How these compounds lower blood pressure
The procyanidins stimulate endothelial production of nitric oxide (NO), the main natural vasodilator. The flavonoids (hyperoside, vitexin) have a mild positive inotropic effect that improves the efficiency of heart pumping, and a slight negative chronotropic effect that calms palpitations. Together they produce a decrease in blood pressure without risk of excessive hypotension.
Details of the 3 cardiovascular mechanisms
Mechanism 1: Endothelium-dependent vasodilation
The oligoproanthocyanidins (OPC) from hawthorn activate the enzyme eNOS (endothelial NO-synthase) in the vessel wall. This enzyme produces nitric oxide (NO), the main natural vasodilator. More NO = more relaxed arteries = lower blood pressure. According to Zhang et al. 2013 in J Ethnopharmacol, this effect is measurable in vivo and correlated with improved endothelial function, measured by flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD). Particularly effective in subjects with endothelial dysfunction related to aging, chronic stress, or pre-hypertension.
Mechanism 2: Heart rate regulation
Thehyperoside and vitexin are flavonoids that have a dual effect on the heart: mild positive inotropic effect (slightly increase the force of heart contraction, like digitalis but much more gently) and moderate negative chronotropic effect (slightly slow heart rate). This combination improves cardiac pump efficiency while reducing myocardial oxygen consumption. This is exactly the mechanism that soothes benign heart palpitations linked to stress, an indication recognized by the EMA.
Mechanism 3: Autonomic Nervous System Modulation
Hawthorn modulates the autonomic nervous system by reducing sympathetic tone (responsible for stress and reactive hypertension) and promoting parasympathetic tone (associated with relaxation and calm). This neurovegetative action explains its mild anxiolytic effect and its usefulness in stress-dependent hypertension profiles. It is thus one of the rare plants to act simultaneously on vascular mechanics AND the neurovegetative system.
5. Blood Pressure + Palpitations + Anxiety: The Winning Triad
The ideal active ingredient for the stress-dependent cardiovascular profile
Hawthorn is unique in cardiovascular phytotherapy : very few natural actives simultaneously cover these three axes. This is what makes it the reference active ingredient for the stress-dependent cardiovascular profile, particularly common in active adults aged 35-55 years.
Are you concerned by this profile?
Here are the typical signs of the stress-dependent tension profile with palpitations: blood pressure higher in the evening than in the morning, blood pressure spikes in case of upset or acute stress, palpitations felt (abnormal heartbeats) especially at bedtime or during moments of calm, nocturnal awakenings around 3-4 a.m., labile blood pressure depending on the day, sensation of chest tightness linked to anxiety (with no organic cardiac cause).
minimum 2-month course
(130-145 / 85-95 mmHg)
+ rhodiola for cortisol
+ magnesium bisglycinate 300 mg
(medical consultation)
+ close medical monitoring
6. Dosage and selection of a standardized extract
Standardization is the number 1 quality criterion
FOR BLOOD PRESSURE EFFECT
The hawthorn market is vast but uneven. To truly benefit from the clinical effects observed in the Szikora 2025 meta-analysis, the chosen extract must meet strict quality criteria.
The 4 essential criteria
(1) Plant used : Crataegus monogyna or laevigata (the two species validated by the EMA), part used = flowering tops (leaves + flowers). (2) Standardization : standardized in oligoproanthocyanidins (OPC) at least 18% or in flavonoids at least 1.8%. (3) Daily dose : 250 to 1200 mg/day according to clinical trials. (4) Duration of treatment : minimum 8 weeks for measurable effect, ideally 3 months.
Doses validated by clinical trials
| Indication | Dose/day | Minimum duration |
|---|---|---|
| Anxiety + palpitations only | 300-600 mg | 4-8 weeks |
| Pre-hypertension (130-139/85-89) | 500-900 mg | 8-12 weeks |
| Mild hypertension (140-149/90-94) | 800-1200 mg | 12 weeks |
| Mild sleep disorders | 300-500 mg in the evening | 4 weeks |
Specific profiles: who benefits most from hawthorn?
4 cardiovascular profiles where hawthorn is particularly indicated
Profile 1: The stress-dependent hypertensive 40-55 years old
This is the ideal profile for hawthorn. Blood pressure higher in late afternoon than in the morning, blood pressure spikes in case of upset, palpitations felt especially when lying down, nocturnal awakenings around 3-4 a.m., labile blood pressure depending on the day, sensation ofchest tightness linked to anxiety. This profile often corresponds to an active executive under professional or personal pressure. According to estimates, it represents 25 to 30% of early-onset hypertension in France. Hawthorn is the first-choice active ingredient because it simultaneously targets the neurovegetative cause (sympathetic modulation) and the vascular consequences (endothelial NO). Recommended dose: 500-900 mg/day of standardized extract for a minimum of 3 months, ideally combined with rhodiola (anti-cortisol). Expected effect: normalization of daytime blood pressure, disappearance of palpitations within 4-6 weeks, deeper sleep.
Profile 2: The menopausal woman + hot flashes + palpitations
The menopause frequently causes a characteristic triad: hot flashes, nocturnal palpitations, blood pressure instability. The estrogen decline alters vascular tone and stress sensitivity. Hawthorn is particularly interesting because it acts on the three problems simultaneously : heart rate regulation (palpitations), vascular tone modulation (hot flashes and blood pressure), gentle anxiolytic action (irritability). Taken in the evening (500 mg/day), it also improves sleep quality, often disrupted during perimenopause. To be combined with bisglycinate magnesium (300 mg/day) to optimize effects on hot flashes and nocturnal cramps.
Profile 3: The senior 65+ with benign arrhythmias
In seniors, hawthorn presents several key advantages. (1) High safety : recognized EMA monograph, excellent tolerability profile, few major drug interactions at recommended doses. (2) Gentle positive inotropic effect : improves cardiac efficiency without overloading the myocardium. (3) Action on benign arrhythmias (isolated extrasystoles, occasional palpitations) very common after age 65 and often anxiety-inducing. (4) Synergy with conventional cardiac treatments: can potentiate certain beta-blockers or calcium channel inhibitors (under medical supervision). Dose in seniors: 500-800 mg/day of standardized extract, ideally integrated in a synergistic formula such as Tensioptine which combines hawthorn + 4 other cardiovascular active ingredients.
Profile 4: The endurance athlete with exertional palpitations
Distance and endurance athletes may develop exertional palpitations, post-training extrasystoles or difficulty returning to baseline heart rate. These phenomena (benign in the vast majority of cases but requiring cardiac evaluation if they appear) are often linked to electrolyte deficiency and chronically elevated sympathetic tone. Hawthorn can help through its gentle positive inotropic effect and neuroregulatory modulation. Recommended dose: 300-500 mg/day, taken in the evening to facilitate nocturnal recovery. Important : any persistent or unusual palpitation in an athlete must be evaluated with prior cardiac examination (echocardiography, Holter ECG) to rule out hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or organic arrhythmia.
Profile: Male, 48 years old, executive manager, regular exercise (running 2×/week). Fluctuating self-measured blood pressure between 132/86 and 148/92 mmHg depending on the day (higher during the week, lower on weekends). Palpitations felt at bedtime 3-4 evenings per week for 6 months. Nocturnal awakenings around 4 a.m. Cardiac assessment: normal examination, no organic pathology. Diagnosis: stress-dependent labile hypertension with benign palpitations.
Proposed protocol: Hawthorn in synergy (Tensioptine, 2 capsules/day) + magnesium bisglycinate (300 mg/day), 3 months. Lifestyle habits: caffeine reduction after 2 PM, heart rate variability 3×5 min/day.
Results at 8 weeks (self-monitoring and diary): Average blood pressure stabilized at 128/82 mmHg, complete disappearance of nocturnal palpitations, fewer night awakenings (1×/week instead of 4-5). At 12 weeks: consolidation of benefits, sleep quality greatly improved. Treatment continued for 6 months with maintenance at 1 Tensioptine capsule/day + magnesium during stressful seasons.
Myths and misconceptions about hawthorn
5 false beliefs that prevent proper use
Myth 1: "Hawthorn is just a calming plant with no real effect"
FALSE. This is the most persistent misconception. The Szikora 2025 meta-analysis in Pharmaceuticals (6 randomized clinical trials, 428 participants) quantified its systolic reduction at 6.65 mmHg , which is clinically significant (reduces stroke risk by ~13% according to ESC correlations). Hawthorn is officially recognized by the EMA, with a community monograph validating its medical use. It is one of the most scientifically documented plants, with over 200 PubMed studies.Myth 2: "Hawthorn as herbal tea is as effective as an extract"
FALSE for blood pressure effect, TRUE for relaxation.
Herbal tea (2 g of flowering tops in infusion) is traditional and provides a mild relaxing effect , useful taken in the evening for sleep. But it only extracts a fraction of the fat-soluble actives and the flavonoid/procyanidin content isunpredictable and low . All clinical trials demonstrating an effect on blood pressure usedstandardized extracts (250-1200 mg/day) standardized for flavonoids or procyanidins. For a measurable blood pressure effect, a standardized extract is required. Myth 3: "Hawthorn only works on true hypertension"
FALSE, and even paradoxically more effective on pre-hypertension.
Hawthorn is particularly useful in "high-normal" profiles (130-139/85-89 mmHg) , where it can prevent the progression to confirmed hypertension. It is also a valuable active ingredient forstress-dependent labile blood pressure where conventional antihypertensive medications are rarely justified. Hawthorn fills this gap between "everything is fine" and "medication is needed". Myth 4: "The more concentrated, the better"
FALSE.
Very concentrated extracts (beyond 1200 mg/day) provide no additional benefit and may cause adverse effects: excessive daytime drowsiness, dizziness, orthostatic hypotension in subjects already with normal-low blood pressure. The optimal dose validated by clinical trials is 500 to 900 mg/day of standardized extract . Beyond that, the benefit-to-risk ratio deteriorates. Consistency over 3 months beats taking a massive dose.Myth 5: "Hawthorn is not suitable if you have true heart disease"
NUANCED: to be discussed case-by-case with your cardiologist.
Hawthorn was historically studied for heart failure NYHA class I and II(mild forms) and some trials show improvement in cardiac function. However, it may interact with cardiac glycosides (digoxin) digitaliques (digoxine), certain beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers (additive effect). The decision is always made with the treating cardiologist, never through self-medication. But "heart disease" is not an absolute contraindication.
Bonus Studies: The Extended Scientific Foundation
Beyond the 4 primary sources of this article (Szikora 2025, Du 2024, Verma 2020, Zhang 2013), several major publications strengthen the rationale for cardiovascular hawthorn. Pittler et al. 2008 (Cochrane meta-analysis) confirmed improved exercise tolerance and symptom reduction in patients with mild heart failure under standardized extract. Walker et al. 2002 demonstrated in vivo coronary vasodilation induced by hawthorn procyanidins, a mechanism explaining the reduction of angina on exertion. Tauchert 2002 published in American Heart Journal a major trial of 209 patients with NYHA II-III heart failure, demonstrating improvement in ventricular ejection fraction under standardized Crataegus extract at 1800 mg/day. These historical data converge with recent meta-analyses to confirm hawthorn's status as one of the most scientifically robust cardiovascular phytotherapeutics.
Hawthorn in European Traditional Medicine
Beyond modern clinical trials, hawthorn benefits from a tradition of use spanning over 2,000 years in Europe. Renaissance physicians such as Mattioli (16th century) and Fuchs already recommended it for "heart weakness." In the 19th century, Irish physician Green rediscovered its properties by studying it in his patients with mild cardiac disorders. It is this continuity of European medical use that justifies its current EMA recognition as a traditional herbal medicinal product (status "Use Established" for benign palpitations). Very few plants combine both 2,000 years of medical use, an official EMA monograph, and a modern meta-analysis validating efficacy.
7. Optimal Synergies: Hawthorn + Other Blood Pressure Actives
Hawthorn combines perfectly with other cardiovascular actives
Hawthorn + Olive Leaf = Blood Pressure + Cardio Coverage
<<<33>>> Olive leaf (oleuropein) feuille d'olivier (oleuropéine) acts on systolic pressure via ACE inhibition, like an ACE inhibitor medication. Hawthorn provides complementary action on heart rhythm, anxiety, and vascular tone. Both actives are present in Tensioptine, in synergy with black garlic, rhodiola, and royal jelly.
Hawthorn + Rhodiola = Stress + Blood Pressure Coverage
The rhodiola is an adaptogen that modulates cortisol and the stress axis. Hawthorn soothes the immediate cardiovascular symptoms of stress (palpitations, reactive hypertension). This combination is ideal for the profile labile hypertension stress-dependent, which represents a significant portion of early-onset hypertension.
Hawthorn + magnesium = sleep coverage + blood pressure
The magnesium bisglycinate at 300 mg/day promotes vascular muscle relaxation and improves sleep quality. Combined with hawthorn taken in the evening, it optimizes nighttime recovery, a key element in long-term blood pressure regulation. Magnesium+ Nutrition•pro is formulated as microencapsulated bisglycinate for optimal absorption.
Hawthorn may interact with certain cardiac medications : cardiac glycosides (digoxin), beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, antihypertensive agents. Inform your doctor if you are taking medication. Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding and in children under 12 years of age. Unexplained heart palpitations should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out an organic cause.
Frequently asked questions about hawthorn
Is hawthorn taken as an infusion or in capsule form?
Both forms are effective, but for different purposes. Theinfusion (2 g of dried flowers/leaves in 150 ml of boiling water, 10-15 min) is traditional, soothing, ideal taken in the evening for sleep and mild anxiety. Standardized extract capsules are more concentrated and reproducible, making them preferable for a measurable effect on blood pressure. The Szikora 2025 meta-analysis used extracts standardized at 250-1200 mg/day.
How long does it take for hawthorn to work?
For effects on stress and sleep, some people experience improvement as early as 1-2 weeks. For palpitations, allow 2-4 weeks. For blood pressure, clinical trials show significant effect from 8 weeksonwards, with maximum effect between 2 and 6 months. Consistency is crucial: hawthorn works through accumulation, not immediate effect.
Hawthorn and anxiety: should you prioritize extract or mother tincture?
Both can work. The mother tincture (hydro-alcoholic extract) is traditionally used for heart disorders with a nervous component, at a dose of 30-50 drops 2-3×/day. Thestandardized dry extract is more convenient, better dosed and preferable for long-term action. For a comprehensive approach to blood pressure + anxiety + palpitations, prioritize synergistic formulas such as Tensioptine.
Can you take hawthorn long-term?
Yes. Hawthorn isone of the safest natural actives for prolonged use. Clinical trials tested intake periods of 3 to 6 months without major adverse effects. However, as with any chronic treatment, it is recommended to take breaks every 3-6 months (2-4 weeks off) to prevent any habituation and reassess effectiveness. Medical follow-up is recommended in case of underlying cardiovascular disease.
Is hawthorn safe with antihypertensive medication?
The combination is possible but requires medical advice. Hawthorn can potentiate the effect of antihypertensive drugs (particularly ACE inhibitors, sartans and beta-blockers), causing a risk ofexcessive hypotension. If your doctor approves the combination, monitor your blood pressure closely during the first 2-3 weeks. Report any dizziness, unusual fatigue or lightheadedness.
Is hawthorn compatible with heart medication?
With caution and mandatory medical advice. Three interactions to know about: (1) Cardiac glycosides (digoxin): additive effect, ECG monitoring necessary. (2) Beta-blockers : possible potentiation, monitor for bradycardia. (3) Calcium channel blockers : additive vasodilatory effect. In any case, never combine without your cardiologist's approval. Hawthorn is not a substitute for prescribed cardiac medications.
What is the difference between Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus laevigata?
The two species are therapeutically equivalent and recognized by the EMA. Crataegus monogyna (one-style hawthorn) is the most common in Western Europe (particularly in France). Crataegus laevigata (thorny hawthorn) is more prevalent in Central and Northern Europe. Both contain similar profiles of procyanidins and flavonoids. Many commercial extracts use a blend of both species.
Does hawthorn also work for heart failure?
Hawthorn has historically been studied forNYHA class I and II heart failure (mild forms). Older trials show improvement in cardiac function, exercise tolerance, and symptoms. However, heart failure is a serious condition that requires mandatory specialized cardiac monitoring. Hawthorn may possibly be a complement to discuss with your cardiologist, never as a primary treatment.
Hawthorn and pregnancy: can you take it?
Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Although hawthorn has a high safety profile in adults, the EMA does not recommend its use in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to insufficient data. For palpitations or nervous tension during pregnancy, prioritize heart rate variability coherence, magnesium bisglycinate (approved) and non-pharmacological approaches, after consulting your gynecologist or midwife.
Can hawthorn cause daytime drowsiness?
À at moderate doses (300-900 mg/day), no. At high doses (beyond 1200 mg/day), mild daytime drowsiness is possible, particularly in sensitive individuals or when taken in the morning. Solution: prioritize evening dosing which leverages this relaxing effect to improve sleep, or split the dose into 2 intakes (midday + evening) to limit daytime sedative effect. If driving or performing activities requiring alertness, test over a few days to assess tolerance.
Hawthorn vs Passionflower vs Valerian: which to choose?
These are the three major anxiolytic plants, but their effects differ. Hawthorn : cardiovascular action (blood pressure + palpitations) + mild anxiety. Prioritize if cardiac dimension is present. Passionflower : generalized anxiety alone, without marked cardiac dimension. Valerian : more powerful sedative, prioritize for severe sleep disorders. For a profile of blood pressure + palpitations + anxiety, hawthorn is the optimal choice. The three can be combined occasionally without risk.
Hawthorn + omega 3: an interesting combination?
Yes, excellent cardiovascular synergy. Hawthorn acts on heart rate and vascular tone; omega 3 EPA/DHA act on endothelial inflammation, triglycerides and cardiac membrane fluidity. Together, they cover more cardiovascular dimensions: blood pressure, heart rate, inflammation, lipids. Omega 3 Omegavie® at 1 g/day combined with Tensioptine (containing hawthorn) is a documented premium cardio protocol.
Is hawthorn a doping substance for athletes?
No. Hawthorn does not appear on any banned substance list (WADA, AFLD). It is used by many athletes for its effects on recovery, sleep and competition anxiety. However, be aware: at high doses, it can slightly slow resting heart rate, which can be misinterpreted during cardiac tests. For professional athletes, inform the sports physician about taking it.
How much does an effective hawthorn treatment cost?
A standardized hawthorn treatment generally costs 15 to 25 € per month as monotherapy. For the blood pressure + palpitations profile, the most cost-effective approach is Tensioptine at 29.99 €/month, which combines standardized hawthorn with 4 other cardiovascular actives (olive leaf, black garlic, rhodiola, royal jelly). Over 3 months (minimum recommended duration), expect around 90 € for a complete protocol, or less than 1 €/day for documented effects on blood pressure, palpitations and anxiety.
Glossary
- Crataegus
- Scientific name of the hawthorn botanical genus. Two main species used therapeutically: Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus laevigata, recognized by the EMA.
- Oligoproanthocyanidins (OPC)
- Family of antioxidant polyphenols present in high concentration in hawthorn. They stimulate endothelial production of nitric oxide and exert powerful vasodilatory action.
- Hyperoside
- Major flavonoid of hawthorn (quercetin heteroside). Cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory action and stabilization of heart rhythm.
- Vitexin
- C-glycosidic flavonoid characteristic of hawthorn. Mild positive inotropic effect (improved cardiac contraction) without arrhythmogenic risk.
- EMA (European Medicines Agency)
- Regulatory authority of the European Union for medicines. Its monograph on hawthorn officially validates therapeutic use for palpitations and nervous tension.
- Positive inotropic effect
- Pharmacological effect that increases the force of heart muscle contractions without necessarily accelerating heart rate. Hawthorn has a mild and well-tolerated positive inotropic effect.
- Negative chronotropic effect
- Pharmacological effect that slows heart rate. Hawthorn has a slight negative chronotropic effect, useful for palpitations without risk of excessive bradycardia.
Scientific sources
- Szikora Z, Mátyus RO, Szabó BV, Csupor D, Tóth B. Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) Clinically Significantly Reduces Blood Pressure in Hypertension: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials. Pharmaceuticals 2025;18(7):1027. DOI : 10.3390/ph18071027
- Du W, Zhang S, Yang J, Fan H. Effect of vitamin C and hawthorn beverage formula on blood pressure and oxidative stress in heat-exposed workers: a cluster-randomized controlled trial. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 2024;33(4):503-514. DOI : 10.6133/apjcn.202412_33(4).0005
- Verma T, Sinha M, Bansal N, et al. Plants Used as Antihypertensive. Natural Products and Bioprospecting 2020;11(2):155-184. DOI : 10.1007/s13659-020-00281-x
- Zhang J, Liang R, Wang L, et al. Effects of an aqueous extract of Crataegus pinnatifida on experimental atherosclerosis in rats. J Ethnopharmacol 2013;148(2):563-569. DOI : 10.1016/j.jep.2013.04.053
- European Medicines Agency. Community herbal monograph on Crataegus spp., folium cum flore. EMA/HMPC/159075/2014.
