howtosupplement
Heart

Hawthorn

Herbal extract used as an adjunct in mild chronic heart failure and may offer modest blood pressure support in adults.

Hawthorn

Hawthorn

55
score
B
evidence
Caution
risk

Proven Benefits

01Improves heart failure symptoms
02Improves exercise tolerance
03May lower blood pressure
04May reduce angina frequency
05May improve endothelial function
06May improve lipid profile
07May reduce oxidative stress

Chemical Forms

Recommended
  • Standardized leaf-and-flower extract (WS 1442 or LI 132)
  • Standardized hydroalcoholic leaf-and-flower extract
Avoid
  • Raw dried berry powder (unstandardized, active content unknown)
  • Generic tinctures without standardization markers
Expert Note

Clinical trials in heart failure use standardized leaf-and-flower extracts such as WS 1442 and LI 132. Standardization keeps flavonoid and procyanidin content consistent, which matters because the active profile varies across raw berries, leaves, and tinctures. Raw berry powders and generic tinctures are less predictable.

Protocol

Amount
300-900 mg
Frequency
Once or twice daily
When
With meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset.

Condition-Based Dosing

Mild chronic heart failure (NYHA I-II)
900 mg daily of standardized extract in divided doses
Borderline hypertension (130-139/80-89 mmHg)
500-1000 mg daily

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit
1800 mg/day (highest daily dose evaluated in clinical trials)
Cycling
Safe for continuous use

Contraindications

Pregnancy or breastfeeding — insufficient safety data
Severe or unstable arrhythmias — limited data and potential risk
Hypotension or low blood pressure — may worsen dizziness or syncope
Scheduled surgery — discontinue at least 2 weeks prior due to possible cardiovascular and antiplatelet effects

Avoid Combining With

  • ✕Antihypertensive drugs — additive hypotension risk; monitor blood pressure closely
  • ✕Digoxin — potential additive cardiac effects and possible transporter interaction
  • ✕Nitrates or PDE5 inhibitors — additive vasodilation may cause dizziness or fainting
Updated Invalid Date