10 Health Benefits Of Crataegus × Bornmuelleri (Hawthorn)

Crataegus × bornmuelleri, also known as hawthorn, has health benefits such as lowering blood pressure, improving cardiovascular health, and enhancing digestion.

The medicinal properties of hawthorn include flavonoids, oligomeric proanthocyanidins, and carotenoids, which contribute to its vasodilatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.

By consuming hawthorn supplements or tea, individuals can experience improved exercise performance, reduced risk of heart disease, and enhanced overall well-being, allowing them to lead a healthier, more active life.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Crataegus × bornmuelleri.

1. Reduces blood pressure

Crataegus × bornmuelleri reduces blood pressure because of its unique combination of flavonoids and procyanidins.

These bioactive compounds help to relax blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow and reducing peripheral resistance. Additionally, hawthorn extracts have been shown to inhibit the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a key regulator of blood pressure in the body.

As a result, hawthorn has been traditionally used as a natural remedy for hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

2. Improves blood circulation

Crataegus × bornmuelleri improves blood circulation because it contains flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) that help to relax blood vessels and improve vasodilation.

This allows for increased blood flow to the heart, which can help to reduce symptoms of cardiovascular disease such as chest pain and shortness of breath.

Additionally, hawthorn's antioxidant properties may also help to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in blood vessels, further supporting its benefits for circulatory health.

3. Lowers cholesterol levels

Crataegus × bornmuelleri lowers cholesterol levels because it contains bioactive compounds such as oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) and flavonoids.

These compounds have been shown to inhibit the absorption of dietary cholesterol in the gut, reducing its re-absorption into the bloodstream and subsequently lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels.

Additionally, hawthorn's flavonoids may also help to increase HDL ("good") cholesterol levels, further supporting overall cardiovascular health.

4. Prevents heart disease

Crataegus × bornmuelleri prevents heart disease because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds.

The plant's berries, leaves, and flowers contain flavonoids, anthocyanins, and other polyphenols that exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory properties.

These compounds help to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, improve blood flow, and prevent platelet aggregation, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease, heart failure, and cardiovascular mortality.

5. Treats irregular heartbeat

Crataegus × bornmuelleri treats irregular heartbeat because its flavonoids and phenolic acids help to stabilize cardiac tissue, improving the heart's pumping function and rhythm.

Hawthorn's bioactive compounds also relax blood vessels, reducing peripheral resistance and decreasing strain on the heart. Additionally, hawthorn's antioxidant properties protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to irregular heartbeat and other cardiovascular conditions.

By addressing these underlying mechanisms, hawthorn helps to restore normal cardiac function and alleviate symptoms of irregular heartbeat.

6. Eases digestive issues

Crataegus × bornmuelleri eases digestive issues because of its unique combination of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs).

These bioactive compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Additionally, hawthorn's flavonoids may help improve gut motility and reduce oxidative stress, further contributing to its digestive benefits.

7. Relieves respiratory problems

Crataegus × bornmuelleri relieves respiratory problems because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins present in hawthorn berries have been shown to relax bronchial smooth muscle, reducing constriction and inflammation in the airways, thereby alleviating symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

This natural remedy can help soothe respiratory distress and promote easier breathing.

8. Boosts immune system

Crataegus × bornmuelleri boosts immune system because it contains a rich array of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins.

These compounds have been shown to exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress.

By doing so, hawthorn's constituents support the immune system's ability to recognize and combat pathogens, ultimately enhancing overall health and wellness.

9. Slows down aging process

Crataegus × bornmuelleri slows down aging process because it contains a unique combination of bioactive compounds that have been shown to exhibit anti-aging properties.

The fruit and leaves of this plant are rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins, which have been found to possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

These compounds have been linked to improved cardiovascular health, reduced oxidative stress, and enhanced cellular protection against damage caused by free radicals, ultimately leading to a slowdown in the aging process.

10. Enhances skin health

Crataegus × bornmuelleri enhances skin health because of its rich antioxidant and flavonoid content.

These potent compounds help to neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation that can lead to premature aging and skin damage.

Hawthorn's anti-inflammatory properties also soothe and calm irritated skin, promoting a more even tone and reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.