Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about hawthorn--common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Hawthorn is a spiny, flowering shrub or small tree of the rose family. The species of hawthorn discussed here are native to northern European regions and grow throughout the world.

Common Names--hawthorn, English hawthorn, harthorne, haw, hawthorne

Latin Names--Crataegus laevigata (also known as Crataegus oxyacantha), Crataegus monogyna

What It Is Used For

• Hawthorn fruit has been used for heart disease since the first century. It has also been used for digestive and kidney problems.
• More recently, hawthorn leaf and flower have been used for heart failure, a weakness of the heart muscle that prevents the heart from pumping enough blood to the rest of the body, which can lead to fatigue and limit physical activities.
• Hawthorn is also used for other heart conditions, including symptoms of coronary artery disease (such as angina).

How It Is Used

The hawthorn leaf and flower are used to make liquid extracts, usually with water and alcohol. Dry extracts can be put into capsules and tablets.

What the Science Says

• There is scientific evidence that hawthorn leaf and flower are safe and effective for milder forms of heart failure.
• There is not enough scientific evidence to determine whether hawthorn works for other heart problems.
• NCCAM is supporting research studying the mechanisms by which hawthorn may affect heart failure.