What is Hawthorn?
- Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MBA
- 12 mind read
Description
Hawthorn is a plant of the Rosaceae family. It grows in temperate regions throughout the world and has uses during all four seasons. Hawthorn has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat cardiovascular diseases since 659 AD. In addition, according to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, it promotes digestion and circulation of blood to dissipate blood stasis. Hawthorn has continued to be used for both medicinal and edible purposes to this day. (2)
Health Benefits
Hawthorn is praised for its richness in bioactive substances. Preparations derived from it are used to formulate dietary supplements, functional foods, and pharmaceutical products. Hawthorn is rich in amino acids, minerals, pectin, vitamin C, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, and choline. Certain studies have shown that Hawthorn has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-cardiovascular disease, and digestive enhancing properties. (3) The use of Hawthorn has continued to grow, with more scientific studies backing it.
Side Effects
While Hawthorn is generally considered safe, it has potential side effects. The most common side effect is dizziness, as well as potential nausea, and digestive symptoms. As with any supplement, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional before beginning Hawthorn supplementation, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Sources
(1) “Hawthorn.” NCCIH, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/hawthorn.
(2) Wu, Min et al. “Roles and Mechanisms of Hawthorn and Its Extracts on Atherosclerosis: A Review.” Frontiers in pharmacology vol. 11 118. 21 Feb. 2020, doi:10.3389/fphar.2020.00118
(3) Zhang, Juan et al. “Food Applications and Potential Health Benefits of Hawthorn.” Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 11,18 2861. 15 Sep. 2022, doi:10.3390/foods11182861
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Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MB
Dr. Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk is a renowned life scientist with expertise in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. A Harvard Medical School faculty member since 2005, she has led research on diabetes and cardiovascular diseases while mentoring students and postdocs.
As a sought-after speaker, Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk shares her insights at events like Supply Side West and Women in Nutraceuticals (WIN), and has presented Canomiks’ work at top conferences. She is featured in publications such as Nutraceuticals World and Nutrition Industry Executive. Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk actively supports the nutraceuticals industry, serving as Co-Chair of the WIN Science Committee, and as a board member for Launch Minnesota and the Jeremiah Program.
She holds a PhD in Pharmacology from Tulane University, an MBA from MIT Sloan, and a BSc from the University of Mumbai. Her leadership continues to influence Canomiks and the wellness industry
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