Hawthorn Leaf Extract, standardized to contain 80% flavonoids, is a potent supplement derived from the leaves of the Hawthorn plant (genus Crataegus), known for its cardiovascular benefits. This high flavonoid concentration makes it particularly effective for promoting heart health and providing Antioxidant support.
Key Characteristics of Hawthorn Leaf Extract
Source: Extracted from the leaves and sometimes the flowers of the Hawthorn plant, which is native to Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially for heart-related ailments.
Form: Available as a fine, yellowish-brown powder that can be encapsulated or mixed into various formulations.
Bioactive Compounds: The primary active components are flavonoids, which include quercetin, vitexin, rutin, and hyperoside. These compounds are responsible for the extract’s health benefits.
Active Substances and Their Specific Effects
1. Flavonoids
Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In Hawthorn Leaf Extract, the flavonoid content is notably high (80%), enhancing its therapeutic potential.
Quercetin:
Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative damage.
Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Cardioprotective: Improves endothelial function and blood flow, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.
Vitexin:
Heart Health: Enhances coronary blood flow and strengthens cardiac function.
Calmative Effect: Exhibits mild sedative properties, which can help in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
Rutin:
Capillary Strength: Reinforces capillary walls, reducing the risk of bruising and varicose veins.
Antioxidant: Scavenges free radicals, protecting against cellular damage.
Hyperoside:
Anti-inflammatory: Suppresses inflammation by modulating inflammatory pathways.
Neuroprotective: Protects neurons from oxidative stress, potentially benefiting cognitive health.
2. Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs)
These are a group of flavonoids known for their strong antioxidant capabilities.
Vascular Health: Enhance blood vessel integrity and flexibility, improving circulation and reducing the risk of vascular diseases.
Antioxidant Protection: Provide potent protection against oxidative stress, particularly in the cardiovascular system.
3. Triterpenes
Triterpenes are compounds that contribute to the extract’s anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic properties.
Cholesterol Management: Help in lowering LDL cholesterol and preventing the buildup of plaques in arteries.
Anti-inflammatory: Reduce inflammation in tissues, supporting heart health and overall well-being.
Health Benefits
1. Cardiovascular Health:
Improves Heart Function: Enhances myocardial contraction and overall heart function, making it beneficial for conditions like heart failure and angina.
Regulates Blood Pressure: Helps in managing hypertension by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow.
Reduces Cholesterol: Lowers LDL cholesterol levels and prevents lipid accumulation in arteries, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.
2. Antioxidant Support:
Scavenges Free Radicals: Neutralizes free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to cells and tissues.
Protects Against Aging: Supports healthy aging by protecting cells from oxidative stress and reducing inflammation.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
Reduces Inflammation: Inhibits the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, helping to manage chronic inflammatory conditions.
Joint Health: May alleviate symptoms of inflammatory joint diseases like arthritis.
4. Cognitive and Neuroprotective Benefits:
Enhances Cognitive Function: Protects neurons from oxidative damage and improves cerebral blood flow, potentially supporting memory and cognitive function.
Reduces Anxiety: Exhibits mild anxiolytic properties, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
5. Digestive Health:
Supports Digestion: Improves digestive function by stimulating digestive enzymes and reducing gastrointestinal discomfort.
Applications
1. Dietary Supplements:
Heart Health Formulas: Widely used in supplements aimed at supporting cardiovascular health, including blood pressure regulation and cholesterol management.
Antioxidant Products: Incorporated into supplements designed to provide antioxidant support and reduce oxidative stress.
2. Functional Foods and Beverages:
Health Drinks: Added to teas, juices, and health beverages for its cardiovascular and antioxidant benefits.
Nutritional Bars: Used in health bars and snacks to enhance their nutritional value and support heart health.
3. Traditional Medicine:
Herbal Remedies: Employed in traditional medicine for treating heart-related ailments and improving overall vitality.
Wellness Formulas: Included in holistic wellness products aimed at promoting general health and well-being.
4. Cosmetic Products:
Anti-Aging Creams: Used in skincare formulations for its antioxidant properties, which help in reducing signs of aging and improving skin health.
Hawthorn is a hawthorn plant of rose family. Its fruit is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has a long history of health care and drug use. In the past, we paid more attention to the fruit research, but in recent years, with the improvement of extraction technology and inspection methods, the research on hawthorn leaves has made great progress, especially the therapeutic effect of flavonoids on cardiovascular system and anti-aging effect received people's favor. Hawthorn leaves have the function of promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis and regulating qi. Studies have shown that flavonoids are the main pharmacological Active Ingredient of hawthorn leaves.
In addition to the sale of Herbal Extract, our company can provide OEM&ODM.
