Known commonly as hawthorn, Crataegus oxyacantha is a thorny shrub that grows all over the world in areas that are moist. It contains the following phytochemicals: Acetylcholine, adenine, adenosine, anthocyanidins, beta-carotene, beta-sitosterol, caffeic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, esculin, hyperoside, pectin, quercitrin, rutin, ursolic acid and vitexin.

It also contains the following nutrients: Amino acids, calcium, choline, chromium, essential fatty acids, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc, vitamins B₁, B₂, B₃ and C.

Hawthorn is most recognized for its effectiveness in treating heart disease and treating & preventing cardiovascular disorders. Because of its ability to increase blood flow to the heart by dilating the coronary arteries and lowering blood pressure, hawthorn is considered by many experts to be the best heart tonic in the world. With hawthorn, the heart's workload is also reduced as it can dilate the arteries in the arms and legs; and cause the force of the heart's contractions to be stronger.

According to European studies, the hawthorn leaf causes the blood vessels to expand, allowing blood which is richer in oxygen to reach the heart muscles. Studies also indicate that hawthorn strengthens the force of the heartbeat and increases its speed slightly as well as reducing resistance throughout the rest of the circulatory system and thus helping the heart out overall.

It has long been a recommendation among many for the treatment of angina and weak heart. In 2001, a European study reported that patients exercise intolerance, fatigue, and shortness of breath were all improved in patients using hawthorn extract.

Aside from its medicinal uses for the heart, hawthorn also is a powerful antioxidant. Strong evidence exists suggesting that risk of heart attacks, strokes, and deaths from heart diseases, can also be reduced with antioxidants.

A 2003 study involving more than 200 patients that were treated over a 16 week period with hawthorn reported exercise capacity being increased while signs and symptoms on heart failure were decreased.

Many experts also recommend hawthorn in liquid form for insomnia and nervous conditions. You can also use it as a gargle to treat a sore throat..

You can find hawthorn most commonly in liquid or dry extracts and in capsule form.

* Important note: Hawthorn doesn't have any known toxicities. However it is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using any alternative therapies. The recommended doses are for those over age 18 unless otherwise stated. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.