Hawthorn flower
Crataegi flos
Weidornblten
Published July 19, 1994
Name of Drug
Crataegi flos, hawthorn flower.
Composition of Drug
Hawthorn flower consists of the dried flower of Crataegus monogyna Jaquin emend . Lindman or C. laevigata (Poiret) de Candolle or others in a valid pharmacopeia citing Cratageus [Fam. Rosaceae], as well as preparations thereof.
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Pharmacological Properties, Pharmacokinetics, Toxicology
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There are no scientific data on which to base the pharmacology and toxicology of the herb. Spectrographic analysis of the chemical constituents of the herb distinguishes only quantitative differences between leaf and flower preparations. One may assume pharmacodynamics similar to those shown for preparations from leaf.
Clinical Data
Claimed Areas of Application
Preparations of hawthorn flowers may be applied to the treatment of coronary circulation, support of the heart muscle and attendant improvement in provision for the coronary artery, autonomic heart trouble, autonomic circulatory disturbances, geriatric heart disease, enhancing activity of myocardium, preventing stress-related heart disease, cardiac boost for the elderly, strengthening the heart and circulatory system, strengthening nerves, for coronary insufficiency, angina pectoris, cardiac neurasthenia, cardiac asthma, and arrhythmia.
Risks
None known.
Evaluation
Since the effectiveness of hawthorn flower for its claimed applications has not been documented, therapeutic use cannot be recommended.
The herb as a water extract, water-alcohol extract, wine infusion and fresh juice has been utilized traditionally to strengthen and invigorate heart and circulatory function.
These statements are based exclusively on historical record and experience.
[Ed.note:A preparation from Hawthorn leaf with flower is listed in the Approved Herbs section. SeeIntroduction]
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