Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) Clinically Significantly Reduces Blood Pressure in Hypertension: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials

Szikora, Zsóka and Mátyus, Rebeka Olga and Vargáné Szabó, Bettina and Csupor, Dezső and Tóth, Barbara (2025) Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) Clinically Significantly Reduces Blood Pressure in Hypertension: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials. PHARMACEUTICALS, 18 (7). No.-1027. ISSN 1424-8247

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: Hypertension affects over 1.3 billion people globally, and inadequate therapy is reported in 80% of cases. Patients increasingly turn to complementary therapies, including hawthorn (Crataegus spp.), a traditional remedy for cardiovascular diseases. Hawthorn has long been used in folk medicine to lower blood pressure; however, its efficacy has not been fully established. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the antihypertensive effects and safety of hawthorn in randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, including six studies with a total of 428 participants. The trials focused on systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) changes over treatment periods of 10 weeks to 6 months. Literature searches were conducted in the Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases. Studies that met the predefined PICO criteria were included. Data analysis was performed using a random-effects model, and the risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Results: Hawthorn statistically significantly decreased SBP (MD: −6.65 mmHg; 95% CI [−11.72; 1.59]) and non-significantly reduced DBP (MD: −7.19 mmHg; 95% CI [−15.17; 0.79]) after 2–6 months of treatment. Variations in dosage (250–1200 mg/day) and study protocols contributed to this heterogeneity. Conclusions: The effect of hawthorn on blood pressure is clinically significant. However, larger, well-designed trials are needed to establish optimal dosing, duration, and efficacy with greater reliability.

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