Phytochemical Properties and Cardiovascular Applications of Hawthorn Extracts
Summary
Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) fruit and leaf extracts are characterised by a rich spectrum of phytochemicals—including flavonoids, phenolic acids, procyanidins, pentacyclic triterpenoids and organic acids—that collectively exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, lipid-modulating and endothelial-protective effects. These bioactive constituents support vasodilation, inhibit inflammatory mediators, scavenge reactive oxygen species and favourably modulate lipid profiles, underpinning traditional and modern uses in the management of hypertension, atherosclerosis, mild heart failure and dyslipidaemia. Emerging applications extend beyond herbal remedies to functional foods, nutraceuticals and dietary supplements formulated to promote cardiovascular resilience and global health.
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Phytochemical Properties and Cardiovascular Applications of Hawthorn Extracts publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in phytochemical properties and cardiovascular applications of hawthorn extracts across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Flavonoids: Polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Procyanidins: Oligomeric flavonoids known for free-radical scavenging and vascular effects.
Endothelial function: The capacity of the vascular endothelium to regulate blood vessel tone and maintain haemostatic balance.
Oxidative stress: An imbalance favouring reactive oxygen species over antioxidant defences, contributing to cellular damage.
Vasodilation: The widening of blood vessels through relaxation of smooth muscle cells, lowering vascular resistance.
Lipid-lowering: Reduction in plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels to mitigate atherosclerotic risk.
References
- The hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida Bge.) fruit as a new dietary source of bioactive ingredients with multiple beneficial functions. Food Frontiers (2024).
- Roles and Mechanisms of Hawthorn and Its Extracts on Atherosclerosis: A Review. Frontiers in Pharmacology (2020).
- Crataegus pinnatifida: Chemical Constituents, Pharmacology, and Potential Applications. Molecules (2014).
- Effect of Crataegus Usage in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: An Evidence‐Based Approach. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2013).
- Food Applications and Potential Health Benefits of Hawthorn. Foods (2022).
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