Preclinical Insights into the Therapeutic Potential of Hawthorn in Hypertension Management: A Review

Hypertension, often referred to as the ‘silent killer,’ is a leading contributor to cardiovascular diseases worldwide, with its prevalence increasing at an alarming rate. As cases of hypertension continue to rise globally, there is a growing interest in exploring natural remedies as either alternatives or complements for conventional antihypertensive drugs. Among the natural solutions, Crataegus species, commonly known as Hawthorn belonging to the Rosaceae family have attracted considerable attention due to their rich phytochemical composition, which may provide potential therapeutic benefits in managing hypertension. This review highlights the preclinical evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies on Hawthorn extracts, focusing on their vasodilatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. These preparations have demonstrated the ability to regulate nitric oxide production, alleviate oxidative stress, and reduce vascular inflammation key processes in managing blood pressure. Additionally, animal studies have assessed the relative effectiveness of several Crataegus species and their prospective combination with conventional antihypertensive medications. The studies emphasize Hawthorn's role as a promising natural alternative or supplement for addressing hypertension and its associated cardiovascular risks.