9 Best Benefits Of Crataegus Oxyacantha
Crataegus oxyacantha, also known as the common hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe, western Asia, and northwestern Africa.
The bioactive compounds found in Crataegus oxyacantha, such as flavonoids, oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), and triterpenoids, are responsible for its medicinal properties.
Studies have shown that consuming Crataegus oxyacantha extracts can help reduce blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health by preventing the formation of blood clots and reducing inflammation, and exhibit antioxidant properties, which help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals.
Overall, the benefits of Crataegus oxyacantha make it a popular herbal remedy for cardiovascular health and other conditions.
Featured Study
According to Alternative medicine review : a journal of clinical therapeutic, Crataegus oxyacantha has been found to have therapeutic benefits, including reducing angina, hypertension, arrhythmias, and congestive heart failure, and may also have potential use as anti-ischemic and lipid-lowering agents.
This page lists the most important health benefits of Crataegus oxyacantha.
Table of Contents
1. Reduces blood pressure
Crataegus oxyacantha reduces blood pressure by lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels in the body, resulting in a healthier cardiovascular system.
This benefit is important because high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease, which can lead to disability and even death if left unmanaged.
The reduction of blood pressure in Crataegus oxyacantha is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and triterpenoids, which have been shown to exhibit vasodilatory and antioxidant properties.
To take advantage of this benefit, Crataegus oxyacantha can be consumed as a tea or supplement, with a standard dosage of 250-500 mg of dried extract per day, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Extract capsules
- Tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Crataegus oxyacantha and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces blood pressure.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Oxyacanthin | Hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, angina pectoris |
| Crataegus flavescens | Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, coronary artery disease |
| Quercetin | Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis |
| Epicatechin | Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cardiac hypertrophy |
| Catechin | Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cardiac arrhythmia |
2. Improves cardiovascular health
Crataegus oxyacantha improves cardiovascular health by enhancing cardiovascular function and reducing the risk of heart disease, which is crucial in preventing conditions such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, and strokes.
This benefit is especially significant as cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for millions of deaths annually.
The plant's ability to improve cardiovascular health is attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and triterpenoids, which have been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory properties.
To harness the cardiovascular benefits of Crataegus oxyacantha, it is best to consume it in the form of standardized herbal extracts or capsules, which are available in health food stores and online, or to drink hawthorn tea, a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to promote heart health.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Tea
- Extract
- Oil
The following table displays the major constituents of Crataegus oxyacantha and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves cardiovascular health.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Oleanolic acid | Hypertension, atherosclerosis, cardiac arrhythmia |
| Quercetin | Cardiac hypertrophy, mitral valve prolapse, cardiac fibrosis |
| Epicatechin | Cardiac ischemia, cardiac failure, ventricular dysfunction |
3. Antioxidant properties
Crataegus oxyacantha antioxidant properties refer to the plant's ability to neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress, thereby reducing the risk of cell damage and related diseases.
This benefit is important as it helps prevent chronic conditions such as atherosclerosis, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as promoting overall health and well-being by shielding cells from environmental stressors and pollutants.
The presence of bioactive constituents like flavonoids, phenolic acids, and ascorbic acid in Crataegus oxyacantha is responsible for its antioxidant properties, which enable the plant to effectively scavenge free radicals and inhibit oxidative processes.
To harness the antioxidant properties of Crataegus oxyacantha, it is best to use it in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, and capsules, which can be consumed as a dietary supplement to support overall health and well-being.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Tea
- Oil
The following table displays the major constituents of Crataegus oxyacantha and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Antioxidant properties.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Quercetin | Inflammation, cancer, neuroprotection |
| Catechin | Atherosclerosis, diabetes, alzheimer's |
| Epicatechin | Oxidative stress, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease |
| Phloridzin | Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic |
4. Reduces risk of heart disease
Crataegus oxyacantha reduces risk of heart disease by lowering the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, through its preventative effects on atherosclerosis and cardiac arrhythmias.
This benefit is particularly important for individuals with a history of heart disease, as it can significantly reduce their risk of experiencing a life-threatening event, and also for those at high risk due to factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or smoking.
The plant's bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and triterpenoids, are thought to be responsible for its cardioprotective effects, as they have been shown to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and stabilize heart cell membranes.
To harness the heart-healthy benefits of Crataegus oxyacantha, it can be consumed as a standardized extract in capsule or tablet form, or as a tincture or tea, typically in doses of 100-300 mg per day.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Extract
- Tea
- Infusion
The following table displays the major constituents of Crataegus oxyacantha and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces risk of heart disease.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Oxyacanthine | Cardiac arrhythmia, atherosclerosis, hypertension |
| Crataegus flavonoids | Myocardial infarction, coronary heart disease, stroke |
| Vitisin b | Cardiac hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, cardiac failure |
| Quercetin | Cardiac hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, atherosclerosis |
| Epicatechin | Cardiac arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, coronary heart disease |
5. Lowers cholesterol levels
Crataegus oxyacantha lowers cholesterol levels by reducing the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as "bad" cholesterol, in the blood.
This benefit is crucial because high levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the development of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes, and can also contribute to atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
The ability of Crataegus oxyacantha to lower cholesterol levels is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and saponins, which have been shown to inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the gut and improve lipid metabolism.
To harness the cholesterol-lowering benefits of Crataegus oxyacantha, it is best to consume it in the form of standardized herbal extracts or supplements, such as capsules or tablets, after consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the optimal dosage and preparation method.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Capsule
- Tea
- Extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Crataegus oxyacantha and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Lowers cholesterol levels.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Oxyacanthine | Hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease |
| Crataegusin | Hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, cholesterol gallstones |
| Procyanidin b2 | Hyperlipidemia, fatty liver disease, atherosclerosis |
6. Decreases triglycerides
Crataegus oxyacantha decreases triglycerides, referring to the reduction of triglyceride levels in the blood, which is a type of fat found in the blood that can increase the risk of heart disease when elevated.
This benefit is important as high triglyceride levels have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and stroke.
The plant's ability to decrease triglycerides is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
To utilize Crataegus oxyacantha for this benefit, it is best to consume it in the form of standardized herbal extracts or capsules, which can be found in health food stores or online, and follow the recommended dosage guidelines to ensure safe and effective use.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Crataegus oxyacantha and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Decreases triglycerides.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Oligomeric proanthocyanidin | Hypertriglyceridemia, fatty liver disease, insulin resistance |
| Flavonoid quercetin | Hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular disease, obesity |
| Catechin | Triglyceride metabolism disorder, atherosclerosis, hypertension |
| Epicatechin | Dyslipidemia, cardiovascular risk factors, metabolic syndrome |
| Procyanidin | Hypertriglyceridemia, fatty liver disease, insulin resistance |
7. Reduces inflammation
Crataegus oxyacantha reduces inflammation, which refers to the body's natural response to injury or damage, characterized by redness, swelling, and pain, as the immune system sends white blood cells to the affected area to fight off foreign invaders.
This benefit is crucial because inflammation can lead to chronic conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and even cardiovascular disease, and can exacerbate conditions like diabetes and obesity, making it essential to manage and reduce inflammation in the body.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Crataegus oxyacantha can be attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and triterpenes, such as quercetin, kaempferol, and oleanolic acid, which have been shown to modulate the immune response and reduce oxidative stress.
To harness the anti-inflammatory benefits of Crataegus oxyacantha, it is best to consume it in the form of standardized herbal extracts, such as capsules or tablets, or as a tea made from dried leaves and flowers, in moderation, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and in combination with a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Infusion
- Salve
- Topical cream
- Extract
The following table displays the major constituents of Crataegus oxyacantha and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces inflammation.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Flavonoids | Arthritis, gout, rheumatism |
| Tannins | Inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, eczema |
| Phenolic acids | Osteoarthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis |
8. Improves digestion
Crataegus oxyacantha improves digestion by enhancing the breakdown and absorption of nutrients in the body, leading to improved overall gut health.
This benefit is crucial as it can alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders such as bloating, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), allowing individuals to maintain a healthy weight, boost their immune system, and increase their energy levels.
The plant's ability to improve digestion can be attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and triterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
To harness the digestive benefits of Crataegus oxyacantha, individuals can consume it in the form of herbal teas, capsules, or tinctures, typically taking 250-500 mg per day, or use it as a dietary supplement in combination with other digestive-friendly herbs.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Tea
- Infusion
The following table displays the major constituents of Crataegus oxyacantha and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves digestion.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Crataegus oxyacantha flavonoids | Gastritis, peptic ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome |
| Crataegus oxyacantha triterpenes | Dyspepsia, indigestion, bloating |
| Crataegus oxyacantha phenolic acids | Constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain |
9. Reduces risk of stroke
Crataegus oxyacantha reduces risk of stroke by inhibiting the formation of blood clots and improving cardiovascular function, thereby reducing the likelihood of a stroke occurring.
This benefit is crucial, as stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with approximately 15 million people suffering from a stroke each year, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality.
The anti-thrombotic and anti-inflammatory properties of Crataegus oxyacantha are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and oligomeric proanthocyanidins, which exert antioxidant and vasodilatory effects.
To harness the potential of Crataegus oxyacantha in reducing the risk of stroke, it is recommended to consume standardized herbal preparations, such as capsules or tablets, containing a minimum of 10% flavonoids, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Extract
- Infusion
- Glycerite
The following table displays the major constituents of Crataegus oxyacantha and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces risk of stroke.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Vitexin | Hypertension, atherosclerosis, ischemic stroke |
| Epicatechin | Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cardiac arrhythmia |
| Quercetin | Inflammation, thrombosis, cardiac fibrosis |