Ethnomedicinal and phytopharmacological potential of Crataegus oxyacantha Linn. - A review

ABSTRACT

Traditional herbal medicines are practiced in the entire world and their ethnopharmacological records reveal that most of the people of the world have been using plants, animals, micro-organisms and minerals for treating various diseases. Crataegus oxyacantha (C. oxyacantha) Linn. (Rosaceae) commonly known as Hawthorn is an official plant in Homeopathic System of Medicine to treat various conditions of cardiovascular system. In recent times, this drug has been subjected to phytochemical, pharmacological, pre-clinical and clinical investigations and many new investigations have been indicated. Current review finds ethnomedicinal and phytopharmacological potential of leaves, flowers, berries, bark etc. for exploring the immense medicinal potential of Hawthorn. At the same time, studies to evaluate the dosage, toxicity and interactions with drugs and herbs on simultaneous use, which is imperative for optimal and safe utilization of this plant, are explained. There are few comprehensive reports available on clinical use of Hawthorn in chronic heart failure patients have shown promising results.