Hawthorn Berry / Shan Zha
Crataegus monogyna / Crataegus laevigata
Hawthorn's vitexin, quercetin, and proanthocyanidins protect the heart — critical during anthracycline-based chemotherapy (doxorubicin, etc.) which causes cardiotoxicity. Laboratory studies show hawthorn extracts inhibit colon, ovarian, and liver cancer cell growth. Hawthorn is essential cardioprotection for cancer patients receiving cardiotoxic treatments.
Medicinal Properties
Cancer Types Studied
Recommended Dosage
300–900 mg standardised hawthorn extract daily.
Preparations
Standardised Extract
300–600 mg hawthorn extract standardised to 1.8% vitexin twice daily — especially during cardiotoxic chemotherapy.
Hawthorn Berry Tea
Steep 2 tsp dried hawthorn berries in hot water 15 min. Drink 2 cups daily.
NIH / PubMed Research
Links open on PubMed (National Library of Medicine). Research is ongoing — results may not reflect clinical use.
Cautions & Interactions
- May interact with digoxin and other cardiac medications
- May lower blood pressure — monitor with antihypertensives
- Start at low dose when on cardiac medications
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation if on long-term use
Related Herbs
Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before use.