What is Mexican Hawthorn Good For? Exploring the Health Benefits of Tejocote

January 13, 2026 •

4 min read

Used for centuries in traditional Mexican medicine, the tejocote, or Mexican hawthorn, is valued for its rich concentration of vitamins, minerals, and potent phenolic compounds. The fruit and leaves offer a range of nutritional benefits, though it is critical to distinguish these from potentially harmful, unregulated supplements.

Quick Summary

Mexican hawthorn, or tejocote, is known for its cardio-protective and antioxidant effects. This fruit also supports digestive function, boosts the immune system, and has diuretic properties when used correctly in traditional remedies. Caution is necessary with commercially sold root supplements.

Key Points

Cardiovascular Support: Mexican hawthorn contains phenolic compounds that aid heart function by improving circulation and modulating blood pressure.
Rich in Antioxidants: The fruit is a significant source of antioxidants, including vitamin C and flavonoids, which combat free radical damage and reduce inflammation.
Digestive Aid: High in pectin, tejocote promotes healthy digestion, regularity, and acts as a prebiotic to support gut health.
Respiratory Relief: Traditionally used to alleviate respiratory symptoms, with infusions helping to soothe coughs and colds.
Immune System Boost: The high vitamin C content helps fortify the immune system, protecting the body from infections.
Dangerous Supplements: Unregulated tejocote root weight-loss supplements are highly dangerous and often contain toxic yellow oleander, which can be fatal.
Culinary Applications: Beyond its medicinal uses, tejocote is a traditional ingredient in Mexican holiday foods like ponche and sweet candies.

Traditional and Modern Benefits of Mexican Hawthorn

Mexican hawthorn, scientifically known as Crataegus mexicana and colloquially as tejocote, is a small, crabapple-like fruit native to the mountainous regions of Mexico and Central America. In traditional culture, the fruit, leaves, and flowers are used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Its traditional medicinal use spans centuries, with applications for heart conditions, respiratory issues, and digestive problems. Recent scientific studies have begun to explore the phytochemical properties that may be responsible for these effects. The benefits stem from a rich profile of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals.

Cardiovascular Health Support

One of the most well-documented uses of hawthorn across various species is its positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Mexican hawthorn is no exception, with its phenolic compounds playing a crucial role. These compounds may help dilate blood vessels, which improves blood flow to the heart and other organs. This makes it a traditional remedy for issues like tachycardia and arrhythmia, where it is used to help moderate heart rate. Studies also suggest that hawthorn extract can help manage cholesterol levels, particularly by lowering total and LDL (bad) cholesterol, potentially preventing plaque buildup in arteries. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider, especially if taking heart medications, due to potential interactions.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties

Tejocote is a rich source of antioxidants, including vitamin C, flavonoids, and polyphenols. Antioxidants are vital for protecting the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to aging and various chronic diseases. The anti-inflammatory effects of tejocote's active components have been noted in research, suggesting they could help manage inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. Research also indicates potential hepatoprotective effects, helping to protect the liver.

Digestive Health and Pectin Content

Mexican hawthorn is notable for its high pectin content, a type of soluble fiber. This fiber aids digestion in several ways, including:

Promoting regular bowel movements to prevent constipation.
Acting as a prebiotic, which feeds and promotes healthy gut bacteria.
Helping treat stomach issues like diarrhea and indigestion, as used in traditional remedies.

Its use in jams, jellies, and desserts in Mexico is largely due to this high pectin content.

Respiratory and Immune System Support

Traditional Mexican medicine often utilizes tejocote for respiratory ailments. Infusions made from the fruit or leaves have long been used as a remedy for coughs, colds, and other chest congestion. The fruit's high vitamin C content contributes to strengthening the immune system, helping the body fight infections. This is why tejocote is a traditional ingredient in ponche navideño, a warm fruit punch enjoyed during the holidays.

Comparison of Hawthorn Forms and Uses


Feature	Mexican Hawthorn (Tejocote Fruit/Leaves)	Unregulated Tejocote Root Supplements	European Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)
Primary Use	Culinary uses (ponche, jams) and traditional medicine for heart, digestive, and respiratory issues.	Marketed for rapid weight loss. Highly Dangerous.	Standardized extracts used for chronic heart failure in Europe.
Safety Profile	Generally considered safe when consumed as food (fruit/tea), but seeds should be avoided. Potential for mild side effects.	Major Health Risk. FDA warns that supplements often contain toxic yellow oleander, which is fatal.	Short-term use considered potentially safe under medical supervision. Side effects include dizziness and nausea.
Regulation	Traditional food item, but safety of supplements is often unregulated.	Unregulated by FDA in many cases. Counterfeit products common.	Standardized extracts are regulated for medicinal use in Europe.
Key Active Compounds	Flavonoids, pectin, vitamin C, minerals.	Can contain toxic yellow oleander compounds instead of true tejocote root.	Flavonoids and proanthocyanidins.

The Critical Danger of Unregulated Tejocote Supplements

It is vital to address the significant health risks associated with unregulated tejocote root supplements marketed for weight loss, often under names like "Alipotec". The FDA has repeatedly warned that many of these products are adulterated with toxic yellow oleander (Cascabela thevetia), a plant containing potent cardiac glycosides that can be fatal. Adverse effects have included severe cardiotoxicity, gastrointestinal distress, and liver injury. The root of the Mexican hawthorn tree is NOT traditionally used for weight loss, and these supplements are a dangerous and fraudulent product. Consumers should be extremely cautious and avoid all unverified supplements claiming to contain tejocote root. For more information on the dangers, consult the NCCIH warning on hawthorn: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/hawthorn.

Conclusion: A Traditional Food, Not a Weight-Loss Cure

Mexican hawthorn, or tejocote, offers a spectrum of traditional health benefits when consumed as a natural food or tea, particularly for cardiovascular, digestive, and immune support. Its high content of beneficial antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins makes it a valuable addition to the diet. However, these natural benefits must be separated from the false claims of unregulated weight-loss supplements. The proven dangers of adulterated products underscore the importance of opting for traditional preparations from trusted sources. By understanding its true properties, one can enjoy Mexican hawthorn safely and for the right reasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mexican hawthorn, known as tejocote, is primarily known for its benefits to cardiovascular health, including improved circulation and potential regulation of blood pressure. It also acts as an antioxidant, supports digestive health, and boosts the immune system with its high vitamin C content.

No, unregulated tejocote root supplements marketed for weight loss are extremely dangerous. Many have been found by the FDA to be contaminated with toxic yellow oleander, which can cause severe health problems and even death.

The fruit can be eaten raw (avoiding the seeds, which can contain toxins), cooked in jams and jellies, or boiled to make a traditional tea or ponche. The leaves can also be used in teas.

When consumed as a natural food or tea, side effects are generally mild, such as headaches or stomach upset. However, improperly prepared or adulterated supplements can cause serious side effects like cardiotoxicity.

Anyone taking medication for heart conditions should consult a doctor before consuming hawthorn. It may interact with certain heart medications, like digoxin and blood pressure drugs, potentially leading to adverse effects.

Mexican hawthorn (C. mexicana) is a specific species with a high pectin content often used in Mexican culinary traditions. While both share some similar cardio-protective compounds, they are distinct plants, and caution should be exercised with supplements from any hawthorn species.

The FDA issued a warning because numerous tejocote supplements, especially those sold online for weight loss, were found to be adulterated with toxic yellow oleander instead of genuine tejocote root. This is a life-threatening contamination.