Hawthorn supplements are derived from the leaf, berry, and flower of the bush/tree called Crataegus monogyny and Crataegus laevigata Hawthorn (Hawthorne) grows in northern Europe, Asia and North America. This supplement has been promoted for decreasing blood pressure, treating angina, and improving the ability of the heart to pump blood for patients with mild congestive heart failure.

Other uses of Hawthorn include use as a cardiac tonic that normalizes and strengthens cardiac muscle contraction, a hypo-tensive, an antisclerotic that reduces atherosclerotic plaques, and a peripheral and coronary vasodilator that opens blood vessels that supply the heart itself and those supplying all other tissues. It is also considered an antispasmodic, a diuretic, a carminative, an astringent, an anti-diarrhea, aids digestion and assimilation, especially digestion of meat, and curbs the appetite.

It should be noted that despite all of the great health claims that Hawthorne has to offer, it could actually increase weight and aggravate existing heart conditions and overheating conditions. You should not take this herb if your palpitations or hypertension might be related to having a “warm” or “fiery” constitution. As always, any cardiac herb are best prescribed by a professional.

Therefore, if the goal is to lose weight, Hawthorne seems an unlikely choice for any serious dieter.