Common Side Effects of Hawthorn Berries
While often well-tolerated, consuming hawthorn berries, especially in concentrated supplement form, can lead to a range of mild to moderate side effects. These are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort. The most frequently reported issues include:
- Dizziness and Lightheadedness: As hawthorn can dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure, some individuals may experience dizziness or vertigo, particularly when starting a new regimen.
- Digestive Distress: Mild stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea can occur. Hawthorn contains fiber that supports digestion, but for sensitive individuals, this can manifest as gastrointestinal issues. Conversely, preparations with probiotics may alleviate constipation.
- Fatigue and Drowsiness: Some users report feelings of tiredness or sleepiness. This is believed to be a result of hawthorn's mild sedative-like effects.
- Headaches: Headaches are another common, albeit minor, side effect noted in clinical trials and user reports.
- Skin Rashes: Allergic or hypersensitivity reactions can sometimes cause mild skin rashes, itching, or dermatitis, though this is rare.
Less Common and Potentially Serious Side Effects
Though infrequent, some side effects require more serious attention. If any of these develop, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional immediately.
- Cardiac Symptoms: Palpitations or a fast heartbeat have been reported. While hawthorn is studied for heart conditions, it affects heart muscle contractions and should not be used for self-treatment of cardiac issues.
- Agitation: Some individuals may experience agitation or mental/mood changes, especially if they are sensitive to its effects.
- Breathing Issues: In rare cases, trouble breathing can occur, which may indicate a more severe allergic reaction.
- Bleeding Risks: Hawthorn might slow blood clotting. Taking it with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs could increase the risk of bleeding.
Serious Drug Interactions with Hawthorn
Hawthorn is not a benign herb and can significantly interact with prescription medications, particularly those affecting the cardiovascular system. It is imperative to inform your doctor about any hawthorn consumption if you are taking any of the following:
- Digoxin (Lanoxin): Hawthorn can increase the effects of this heart medication, potentially leading to toxic levels and increased risk of side effects.
- Blood Pressure Medications: Hawthorn can lower blood pressure, which may cause blood pressure to drop too low when combined with other antihypertensive drugs like beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol) and calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine).
- Nitrates: Medications used to increase blood flow to the heart, such as nitrates, can have their effects amplified by hawthorn, increasing the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness.
- Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors: These medications, used for male sexual dysfunction, also lower blood pressure. The combination with hawthorn could cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure.
- Blood-thinning Medications: Because of its potential to slow blood clotting, hawthorn should be used with caution alongside anticoagulants like warfarin or antiplatelets.
Contraindications and Special Populations
There are specific groups of people who should avoid hawthorn berries entirely or use them with extreme caution.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of hawthorn during pregnancy and lactation is not well-established. Some sources suggest potential uterine stimulation, and therefore, it should be avoided.
- Children: There is insufficient research to confirm the safety of hawthorn for children. Use in this population is not recommended.
- Individuals with Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Given hawthorn’s blood pressure-lowering effect, those already suffering from low blood pressure should avoid it to prevent a further, potentially dangerous drop.
- Allergies: If you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to hawthorn or other plants in the rose family, you should not consume hawthorn berries.
- Surgery: Hawthorn might increase the risk of bleeding. Stop using it at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.
Comparison of Raw Berries vs. Supplements
It is important to understand the difference in effects and risks between consuming raw berries and taking standardized supplements.
| Feature | Raw Hawthorn Berries | Standardized Hawthorn Supplements |
|---|---|---|
| Potency | Lower and more variable concentration of active compounds. | Higher, concentrated, and standardized dosage of active compounds. |
| Side Effect Risk | Mild side effects are possible but less likely due to lower dosage. | Higher risk of side effects and drug interactions due to higher potency. |
| Consumption Method | Can be eaten fresh, in jams, jellies, or teas. Seeds contain trace cyanide and should be avoided. | Available as capsules, tablets, or liquid extracts. Often includes leaves and flowers. |
| Regulation | Not regulated as a drug. Quality depends on source. | In the US, regulated less stringently than prescription drugs by the FDA. |
What to Do If You Experience Side Effects
If you experience any adverse effects after consuming hawthorn, it is recommended to stop use and contact a healthcare professional, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent. In the case of severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing trouble) or severe cardiac symptoms (pounding heart, shortness of breath), seek immediate medical help by calling emergency services. For mild symptoms like nausea or headache, discontinuing use may be enough, but professional advice is still recommended.
Conclusion
Hawthorn berries have a long history of use for their potential benefits, particularly concerning heart health and digestion. However, their consumption is not without risk. While many people tolerate hawthorn well, potential side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and fatigue can occur. More critically, hawthorn can cause serious interactions with heart, blood pressure, and blood-thinning medications. Certain populations, including pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and those with pre-existing heart conditions or low blood pressure, should exercise extreme caution or avoid hawthorn altogether. Anyone considering using hawthorn should consult a healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for their specific health status and to mitigate the risks of adverse effects and potentially dangerous drug interactions.
