Negative Effects of Taking Hawthorn Berry Herbs

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), berries from the hawthorn plant have been used since the first century as a treatment for heart disease. Both the leaves and flowers are used in modern herbal medicine. Though hawthorn is considered a mild and generally safe herbal remedy, some negative effects may be experienced by taking it.

Drug Interactions

• Several drugs may negatively interact with hawthorn berry. Consult your health care professional before using hawthorn if you are currently taking alpha blockers, beta blockers, drugs for male sexual dysfunction, calcium channel blockers, heart medications, sleep or anxiety medications, psychiatric medicines, muscle relaxers, anti-seizure drugs or drugs that cause drowsiness. An article on WebMD cautions against changing the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor.

Allergic Reaction

• Some people may experience an allergic reaction to hawthorn berry. Symptoms of a hawthorn allergy include itching or swelling of the tongue, face or throat, severe dizziness or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical care if you experience any of these symptoms.

Side Effects

• The experts at UMMC note that hawthorn rarely causes side effects; however, occasionally some people may experience nausea, heart palpitations or headache. If you are having these side effects, discontinue use of hawthorn berry immediately and consult your health care professional.

Non-Treatment

• Because hawthorn is used as an herbal treatment for heart disease, some people who suspect they have heart disease might take hawthorn as a precautionary measure instead of seeking an informed diagnosis and treatment plan. UMMC cautions against self-treating a serious condition like heart disease with hawthorn or any other remedy.