The Hawthorn is a small thorny tree that is part of the rose family. In the Middle Ages, a Hawthorn branch was hung over a home’s entrance to keep away evil spirits. The flowers and berries of the hawthorn plant have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to strengthen the heart and to promote cardiovascular functioning and healthy blood pressure.
Hawthorn extract contains many substances that may benefit the heart. Two substances in particular -- flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs) -- are believed to contribute to hawthorn's beneficial effects on the heart. Flavonoids may help dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow, and protect the blood vessels from damage. Both flavonoids and OPCs have antioxidant effects.
The berries, leaves and flowers of the hawthorn plant are used for medicinal purposes. The leaves and flowers are believed to contain more of the active compounds than the berries. Hawthorn extract is available in liquid, capsule or tablet form. Like any supplement, you should consult your doctor before including it in your regular diet.
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