HAWTHORN EXTRACT 5:1 (BERRY)

Hawthorn Extract 5:1 (Berry) is a potent botanical derived from the nutrient-rich berries of various Crataegus species, primarily Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus laevigata. Historically revered in traditional European and Asian medicine, hawthorn has been utilized for centuries to support heart health and overall well-being. This concentrated 5:1 extract signifies that five parts of raw hawthorn berries are used to produce one part of the finished extract, ensuring a high potency and a concentrated profile of its beneficial compounds. The berries are carefully harvested and processed to preserve their natural phytochemistry, resulting in a fine powder known for its distinctive reddish-brown hue and mild, characteristic aroma. This extraction method maximizes the bioavailability and efficacy of the plant's active constituents, making it an ideal ingredient for advanced supplement formulations aiming for robust cardiovascular support.

The profound health benefits of Hawthorn Extract are primarily attributed to its rich array of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and proanthocyanidins. Key flavonoids such as vitexin, hyperoside, and rutin, alongside oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), exert multifaceted positive effects on the cardiovascular system. Research indicates these compounds contribute to vasodilation, improving blood flow and reducing peripheral vascular resistance, thereby supporting healthy blood pressure levels already within a normal range. Furthermore, hawthorn is recognized for its positive inotropic effects, enhancing the heart's contractile strength and efficiency without significantly increasing oxygen consumption. Its potent antioxidant properties, evidenced in numerous in vitro and in vivo studies, help protect myocardial cells and vascular endothelium from oxidative stress, a critical factor in maintaining long-term cardiovascular health. A meta-analysis published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews highlighted hawthorn's efficacy in improving exercise tolerance and reducing symptoms in individuals with mild chronic heart failure.

Hawthorn Extract 5:1 finds extensive application in dietary supplements targeting cardiovascular wellness, often incorporated into capsules, tablets, and liquid formulations. For optimal efficacy and consistent results, manufacturers prioritize extracts standardized to specific levels of total flavonoids or proanthocyanidins, ensuring a reliable concentration of active compounds in each dose. Quality considerations extend to the sourcing of berries, ensuring they are free from pesticides and heavy metals, and utilizing advanced extraction techniques that preserve the delicate balance of phytochemicals. Clinical trials, such as those published in journals like Phytotherapy Research, have demonstrated hawthorn's ability to reduce symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, and improve cardiac performance. Its synergistic action with other heart-healthy nutrients like CoQ10 or magnesium is also frequently explored in comprehensive formulations. The scientific community continues to investigate its full potential, reinforcing hawthorn's status as a cornerstone ingredient for advanced cardiovascular support.