Hawthorne Berry: An Age-Old Heart Health Aid

Hawthorne berry is an herb that comes from the hawthorn shrub, which can grow up to 40 feet in height. The berries are usually bright red in coloration. They have been used medicinally since the time of the ancient Greeks for such things as insomnia and nervousness.

Hawthorne berry today is most associated with its widespread use as a tonic for the heart. Specifically, it protects arterial walls, has the ability to dilate (enlarge) coronary blood vessels (the vessels supplying the heart with vital oxygen, blood, and nutrients), and strengthen the heart's pumping ability. Because of these powerful cardiac benefits, it is now one of the most prescribed heart remedies in Europe.

Potential side effects are rare, and usually superficial in nature. For some, these include nausea, sweating, and fatigue. In addition, those individuals who are not afflicted with any heart condition may experience a significant drop in blood pressure if very large doses of hawthorne berry are consumed. Other than these considerations, it is generally seen as a safe herbal remedy.

The evidence for hawthorne berry's efficacy is significant, especially given its lengthy history of use. Many studies have shown that this herb performs admirably as a medicine for heart health. However, those already on some sort of prescribed heart drug should take special precaution to avoid possible drug interaction, though none are known at the present time.