The Hawthorne (Crataegus oxyacantha) is a small thorny tree belonging to the rose family. The small reddish fruits of the hawthorne tree are used as food in many countries. Hawthorne is found in Europe, western Asia, and North Africa. Extracts use both the leaves, flowers and berries. The extract contains a variety of bioflavonoid-like complexes that appear to be primarily responsible for the cardiac actions of the plant. Bioflavonoids found in hawthorne include oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs), vitexin, quercetin, and hyperoside. The bioflavonoids in hawthorn are potent antioxidants.

It has a history of thousands of years of use. During the last century, its has been mainly used for the health of the heart. In the last century, a group of American physicians known as the Eclectics used hawthorne preparations to treat cardiac troubles such as weak heartbeat and angina.*

Research on both animals and people has proven that hawthorne has positive effects on the cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) system. Plant pigments of the Hawthorne Berries called flavinoids are the phytochemicals thought to be responsible for its health benefits to the heart.*

Hawthorne seems to work in two main ways. For one, it dilates the blood vessels, especially the coronary arteries that nourish the heart muscle. By this actions, it may help lower blood pressure and reduce angina. As the arteries dilate, or open wider, pressure throughout the blood vessel system is lowered. Hawthorne acts as a mild tonic that helps tone the heart.*

While Hawthorne may help with keeping a heart healthy, anyone with heart problems should always consult with their health care provider to see if Hawthorne is a good choice for them.*

NuNaturals Pure Liquid Hawthorne Berry Extract is an extract standardize for 2% Vitexin-2"-rhamnosides. There are 75 mg per ml. 2 to 4 ml per day are recommended.