[Significance of hawthorn extract in general practice - a current positioning]

Abstract

Background: Traditionally, hawthorn extract has been used for preventive and curative support in mild forms of age-related cardiovascular problems. There are now solid data demonstrating pre-clinical effects and mechanisms of action on a molecular-biological and cellular level that appear to be of particular interest in influencing vascular ageing and in arterial vascular disorders.

Method: The review presents the results of a meeting of experts that took place to work out a current assessment of the therapeutic suitability of hawthorn extract in the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Results and conclusions: Although currently no general recommendation can be given on the use of hawthorn extract in cardiac insufficiency, its use is indicated for typical challenges arising in general practice, where particularly patients with functional cardiorespiratory complaints present, possibly those with cardiac insufficiency with preserved heart function for whom there has thus far been no effective therapy apart from exercise. This recommendation is supported by the findings of studies on the safety and very good tolerability of hawthorn extract, particularly for therapy adjuvant to standard practice.

Keywords: Crataegus; Hawthorn; ageing patient; cardiovascular disease; quality of life.