Last verified: today
Hawthorn Fruit Extract
Also known as: Crataegus, Crataegus monogyna, Crataegus microphylla, HFE, 山楂
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Traditional plant extract with antioxidant properties; early research hints at heart and blood pressure benefits.
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What it does
Hawthorn fruit extract comes from the berries of Crataegus shrubs, long used in traditional Chinese medicine. Lab and animal studies suggest it may reduce oxidative stress, support healthy blood...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose (insufficient research data)
What the Science Says
Hawthorn fruit extract comes from the berries of Crataegus shrubs, long used in traditional Chinese medicine. Lab and animal studies suggest it may reduce oxidative stress, support healthy blood pressure, and help manage cholesterol — largely through antioxidant compounds like chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, and hyperoside. One human clinical trial in people with mild hypertension and high cholesterol exists, but its full results are not yet publicly available in the provided data.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to treat or cure heart disease in humans. No solid human evidence it lowers blood pressure on its own. Don't confuse animal study results with proven human benefits. Not a replacement for prescribed cardiovascular medications.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Reduces oxidative stress markers in animal models of hypertension and liver injury.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
May help lower high blood pressure caused by high salt intake in animal studies.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Reduced atherosclerosis and improved cholesterol excretion in mice with diet-induced cardiovascular risk.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Protected liver cells from toxin-induced damage by reducing oxidative stress and cell death in animal studies.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic or bioavailability data provided in the available studies
Red Flags to Watch For
- Almost all supporting evidence comes from animal or cell studies, not human trials
- The one human clinical trial available has no published abstract — results cannot be independently verified from provided data
- May interact with blood pressure or heart medications — consult a doctor before use
- Over 1,000 supplement products contain this ingredient despite very limited human evidence
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Hawthorn Fruit Extract do?
Traditional plant extract with antioxidant properties; early research hints at heart and blood pressure benefits.
What is the effective dose of Hawthorn Fruit Extract?
No established dose (insufficient research data)
Is Hawthorn Fruit Extract safe?
Almost all supporting evidence comes from animal or cell studies, not human trials
What doesn't Hawthorn Fruit Extract do?
Not proven to treat or cure heart disease in humans.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-07-06