What is that
When we talk about hawthorn drops we refer to liquid formulations of various types, containing extracts of the homonymous plant to be taken in the form of oral drops.
Hawthorn ( Crataegus monogyna, syn. Crataegus oxyacantha ) is a small spontaneous shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is widely known for its sedative and anxiolytic properties, but also for the properties exerted at the level of the cardiovascular system.
Production and Composition
Preparation and Active Substances present inside the Hawthorn Drops
The hawthorn in drops is obtained from the leaves and flowers of the same hawthorn (which constitute the plant's drug), through the use of adequate solvents.
Depending on the technique used, the drug / solvent ratio, the types of solvents used and their concentration, it is possible to obtain different liquid extracts (mother dye, hydroalcoholic solutions, fluid concentrates, etc.) which can then be taken orally in shape of drops.
Through the extraction processes, the active substances initially contained in the plant are solubilized in the solvent or in the mixture of solvents used (therefore, they are extracted).
These substances, responsible for the properties ascribed to hawthorn, are:
- Flavonoids, among which we find the hyperoside, rutin, quercetin and apigenin;
- Proanthocyanidins ;
- Biogenic amines, including tyramine;
- Triterpenes, among which we find ursolic acid and oleanolic acid.
Property
Properties attributed to Hawthorn
Various properties are ascribed to the hawthorn, many of which have been confirmed by various studies.
More in detail, cardiotonic, coronary and hypotensive vasodilator properties are attributed to the hawthorn, mainly due to its proanthocyanidin content.
Always the proanthocyanidins are attributed to the anxiolytic and sedative properties traditionally ascribed to this plant, although, in this type of activity, it seems there is also the involvement of flavonoids. Furthermore, the latter have been shown to possess antioxidant, antibacterial and antivial activities .
Finally, some studies have shown that hawthorn is also able to reduce blood cholesterol levels, exerting an interesting cholesterol-lowering action .
Given its proven cardiac action, the German Commission has officially approved the use of hawthorn for the treatment of mild cardiovascular disorders (class II of the classification made by the NYHA, New York Heart Association) characterized by a reduction in cardiac output.
For more information, read: Hawthorn in Herbal Medicine - Hawthorn, phytotherapeutic properties
uses
Despite the encouraging results obtained from the numerous studies and indications approved by the German Commission, hawthorn drops (therefore in the form of liquid extract) is used in phytotherapy mainly in the treatment of mild hypertensive states and as an anxiolytic, sedative and, consequently, as a remedy sleep aid in case of anxiety and agitation (in the latter case, it is usually taken in conjunction with other plant extracts capable of increasing its action, such as extracts of lemon balm, valerian or escolzia).
Currently, it is possible to find different types of hawthorn on the market, which differ substantially in the extraction method used and in the solvents used.
In this regard, we remind the importance of using only products that are titrated and standardized in active ingredients (in this case, flavonoids and / or proanthocyanidins). Only in this way, in fact, it is possible to know how many active substances are being taken.
The posology of the hawthorn drops, therefore, can vary depending on the type of product used and the quantity of active substances contained therein. For this reason, we advise you to carefully read the instructions on the packaging or on the package insert. In case of doubt, it is useful to consult your pharmacist or your doctor.
Please note
Hawthorn drops should not be understood as a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Moreover, it is not a drug and, for this reason, it is not indicated in the treatment of any type of pathology. However, it can be useful in case of minor ailments.
In any case, before undertaking do-it-yourself therapies based on hawthorn drops, it would be good to always ask the advice of your doctor.
Use in Homeopathy
Hawthorn drops can also be found as a homeopathic remedy in different dilutions. In the field of homeopathy, this remedy is used in cases of anxiety and distress, insomnia, palpitations, tachycardia and hypertension.
Pharmacological Interactions
Given the activities the plant is equipped with, the hawthorn drops could establish drug interactions with drugs capable of acting on the cardiovascular system, such as antiplatelet agents, cardioactive glycosides and antiarrhythmic drugs. Furthermore, it was shown that hawthorn could interfere with the activity of cisapride (a drug used to treat various types of gastric disorders).
Side effects
Broadly, the hawthorn drops are well tolerated by most individuals. However, following its intake, more or less severe side effects may occur, such as:
- Gastrointestinal disorders;
- Headache;
- Dizziness;
- Palpitations;
- Fatigue;
- Hot flashes;
- Tachycardia.
Contraindications
The use of hawthorn drops is generally contraindicated in the following cases:
- Known hypersensitivity to the same hawthorn drops or to any of its components;
- In pediatric age;
- During the first trimester of pregnancy (in any case, before using similar products at any stage of gestation, it is necessary to ask for the preventive advice of your doctor and / or your gynecologist).
