Inflammation & Recovery

Hawthorn Berry: Benefits, Dosage & What the Science Says

Hawthorn berry extract is a well-documented cardiovascular botanical with clinical evidence for supporting heart muscle function, blood pressure regulation, and arterial elasticity. Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) and vitexin glycosides are the primary active fractions.

Last reviewed: Moderate evidence Crataegus monogyna / Crataegus laevigata
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Botanical field plate of hawthorn fruit
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Decision snapshot

What matters before you buy

Evidence
Moderate
Studied dose
160--900 mg daily of standardized extract (18.75% OPCs or 2.2% vitexin); effects on cardiac parameters typically require 8+ weeks of consistent use.
Quality marker
Look for a clearly disclosed form, useful dose and independent testing.
Safety check
May potentiate cardiac glycosides (digoxin) -- do not combine without medical supervision; may enhance antihypertensives; generally very well tolerated in healthy adults.

What Is Hawthorn Berry?

Traditional cardiovascular tonic with modern evidence for heart muscle support

Evidence-Based Benefits

  • Cardiac output and heart muscle contractility
  • Blood pressure and vascular tone support
  • Coronary and peripheral circulation

Recommended Dosage

160--900 mg daily of standardized extract (18.75% OPCs or 2.2% vitexin); effects on cardiac parameters typically require 8+ weeks of consistent use.

Safety, Side Effects & Interactions

May potentiate cardiac glycosides (digoxin) -- do not combine without medical supervision; may enhance antihypertensives; generally very well tolerated in healthy adults.

Works Well With

Research suggests Hawthorn Berry may complement:

Traditional Use

Traditional Chinese Medicine
山楂 Shan Zha
reduces food stagnation moves Blood and disperses stasis transforms turbidity and eases distention supports Spleen and Stomach

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References

  1. Hawthorn extract for chronic heart failure: systematic review - PMID:18593826
  2. Crataegus and cardiovascular function: a meta-analysis - PMID:16762125
  3. OPCs from hawthorn and endothelial protection - PMID:19807920
  4. Hawthorn and mild hypertension: a controlled trial - PMID:12169962

Last reviewed: June 6, 2026. For informational purposes only. See full disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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