Results for the substance hawthorn leaf and flower

Hawthorn leaf and flower is a herbal preparation traditionally used for palpitations or temporary heart sensations related to nervousness, after a doctor has excluded serious heart disease. Some products are also used for mild mental stress and to aid sleep. Hawthorn is not a treatment for heart attack, severe heart failure or important rhythm disorders.

It is taken by mouth as tea, extract, capsules or drops, depending on the product. Follow the dose and duration in the leaflet. If heart symptoms occur for the first time, are frequent or worsen, do not rely only on herbal treatment; medical assessment is needed. People taking heart or blood-pressure medicines should ask for advice before use.

Side effects are usually uncommon and may include nausea, stomach discomfort, dizziness, sleepiness, headache or allergic reactions. Because of its effects on the heart and blood vessels, hawthorn may influence blood pressure or pulse in some people. Combining it with cardiac medicines, antihypertensives or sedatives should be discussed with a doctor to avoid additive effects.

Seek urgent medical help if chest pain, breathing difficulty, fainting, intense palpitations, swollen legs or reduced exercise tolerance occur. If symptoms last longer than two weeks or worsen, consult a doctor. Hawthorn preparations are not recommended for young children, pregnant women or breastfeeding women without medical advice.