Hawthorn fruit tea berries have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support heart health, improve digestion, and soothe anxiety. These small, tart fruits grow on shrubs and trees in the Crataegus genus and are native to Europe, North America, and Asia.
Packed with powerful antioxidants and valuable nutrients, hawthorn berries may offer several health benefits when consumed regularly—either raw, in teas, or as a supplement.
Let’s explore the top 9 health benefits of hawthorn berry, backed by research and traditional uses.
Table of Contents
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Hawthorn fruit tea or berries are loaded with polyphenols, a group of potent antioxidants found in many fruits and vegetables.
These compounds help combat free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells, accelerate ageing, and increase your risk of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
By reducing oxidative stress, the antioxidants in hawthorn may help protect the body’s cells and promote overall health. This antioxidant power is a big reason hawthorn berries are commonly used in herbal remedies.
Summary:
Hawthorn berries are a great source of antioxidants that help protect against free radical damage and chronic diseases.
2. May Have Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Chronic inflammation is at the root of many modern illnesses, from type 2 diabetes to arthritis. Early studies in animals suggest that hawthorn berry extract may lower levels of inflammatory compounds in the body.
For example, mice given hawthorn extract showed significantly reduced liver inflammation. Other studies observed that compounds in hawthorn leaves, such as vitexin, may reduce the body’s inflammatory response.
Summary:
Hawthorn berries may help reduce inflammation, potentially lowering your risk of chronic diseases linked to long-term inflammation.
3. Could Help Lower Blood Pressure
In traditional Chinese medicine, hawthorn has long been used to support cardiovascular health, particularly by lowering blood pressure.
Research shows that hawthorn extract may act as a vasodilator, meaning it helps relax blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow.
A few small human studies support this, showing reduced diastolic blood pressure in participants who took daily hawthorn extract. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for blood pressure control.
Summary:
Hawthorn fruit tea may help relax blood vessels and improve circulation, which can contribute to lower blood pressure.
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4. May Improve Cholesterol Levels
Hawthorn berry extract contains flavonoids and pectin, a form of soluble fiber that supports cholesterol metabolism. Animal studies have shown that hawthorn extract may help lower total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and triglycerides, while raising HDL (good) cholesterol.
One human study found that people with atherosclerosis who took hawthorn extract saw a significant reduction in arterial plaque buildup.
Summary:
Hawthorn extract may improve cholesterol balance and reduce plaque formation in blood vessels, supporting heart health.
5. Supports Healthy Digestion
Traditionally, hawthorn berries have been used to treat digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and constipation.
Thanks to their fiber content, these berries may promote regular bowel movements and act as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
Animal research also shows that hawthorn extract may speed up digestion and support the production of digestive enzymes, especially for breaking down fatty and protein-rich foods.
Summary:
Hawthorn may support gut health by improving digestion, relieving constipation, and enhancing enzyme activity.
6. May Slow Skin Aging
Antioxidants in hawthorn berries not only support your internal health but may also benefit your skin.
One lab study found that combining hawthorn and ginseng extract helped reduce wrinkle formation and increased skin hydration by preserving collagen, the protein responsible for firm, youthful skin.
Although promising, these results are based on test-tube research, and human studies are still needed.
Summary:
The antioxidants in hawthorn (furit tea) berries may protect against premature ageing and help maintain skin elasticity.
7. May Help Ease Anxiety
Hawthorn has been studied for its calming properties and potential role in reducing anxiety. In one study, participants who took a combination of hawthorn, magnesium, and California poppy experienced reduced anxiety levels.
While it’s hard to isolate the exact role of hawthorn, its natural calming effect, along with fewer side effects than pharmaceutical drugs, makes it a supplement worth exploring—with medical advice.
Summary:
Hawthorn fruit tea may help ease mild anxiety symptoms, but further research is needed to understand its role fully.
8. Used Traditionally to Support Heart Failure Treatment
Hawthorn berry is perhaps best known for its use in managing symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF). Some studies suggest it may improve heart function and reduce symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath when used alongside standard treatments.
However, combining hawthorn with heart failure medications may not always be safe, so it’s crucial to speak to your doctor before using it.
Summary:
Hawthorn has shown promise in supporting heart failure symptoms, though it should be used cautiously with medical supervision.
9. Easy to Incorporate into Your Diet
You can enjoy hawthorn berries in several delicious and convenient ways:
- Raw: Fresh hawthorn berries have a tart, slightly sweet flavour. Just avoid eating the seeds, which contain cyanide-like compounds.
- Tea: Brew dried berries, leaves, or flowers into a soothing herbal tea.
- Jams & Syrups: Great for homemade spreads and desserts.
- Vinegar or Wine: Ferment hawthorn for a zesty salad dressing or adult beverage.
- Supplements: Available in capsules, powders, or liquids, usually with dosing recommendations of 250–500 mg taken up to three times daily.
Always buy supplements from reputable brands with third-party testing for quality.
Summary:
Hawthorn berries can be consumed fresh, brewed as tea, or taken as supplements for a convenient health boost.
Final Thoughts
Hawthorn (fruit tea) berry is a small fruit with big potential. With centuries of traditional use and emerging scientific research supporting its benefits.
This antioxidant-rich berry could support everything from heart health and digestion to skin and emotional well-being.
However, as with any herbal remedy, it’s essential to use hawthorn with care—especially if you’re taking medications for heart conditions. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements.
Whether enjoyed as tea, jam, or a supplement, hawthorn berries are a natural and nutritious way to support your health journey. For more remedies visit: Remedyu.com