Hawthorn Berry (Crataegus oxyacantha, sometimes referred to as C. laevigata) is a member of the rose family and is found in temperate climates throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia.

Hawthorn has been used since the Middle Ages and was long considered a sacred tree of medicine. Across many cultures, various parts of the Hawthorn plant have been utilized for their therapeutic properties. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hawthorn was primarily used to support the heart and digestive tract.

Today, Hawthorn is widely recognized as an irreplaceable component of cardiovascular health, while its role in anti-aging skin care therapy represents another remarkable facet of its wide-ranging benefits.

In addition to the berries, the leaves and flowers of Hawthorn contain bioflavonoid-like compounds believed to be responsible for its biologically active properties. These bioflavonoids include Vitexin, Oligomeric Procyanidins, Hyperoside, and Quercetin.

Hawthorn also contains a variety of vitamins (primarily B-complex and Vitamin C), minerals, fructose, xanthine derivatives, and beta-sitosterols. Clinical studies have shown that the bioflavonoids found in Hawthorn are potent antioxidants.

Antioxidants help “scavenge” or neutralize free radicals — unstable molecules believed to contribute to the aging process by damaging cell membranes, altering DNA, and even causing cell death. While free radicals occur naturally, environmental toxins such as excess UV exposure, radiation, cigarette smoke, and air pollution can significantly increase their presence.

Hawthorn has been shown to calm skin irritation and help neutralize the effects of UV radiation caused by excess sun exposure, making it an excellent addition to many of our skin care formulations.

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