Crataegus songarica, commonly known as Songar hawthorn or Songar berry, is a species of hawthorn that belongs to the Rosaceae family.
It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to the central and western regions of Asia, including parts of Russia, Kazakhstan, and China.
Like other members of the Crataegus genus, Crataegus songarica has been recognized for its potential medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes.
Crataegus songarica typically grows to a height of around 2 to 5 meters. It has lobed, serrated leaves that are dark green and alternate along the branches. The flowers of the plant are white or pale pink and they appear in clusters, usually in late spring to early summer.
These flowers give way to small, spherical fruits that are bright red or orange when ripe, and they are commonly referred to as Songar berries.
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The Medicinal Health Benefits of Crataegus Songarica (Songar Hawthorn)
1. Cardiovascular Support: Hawthorn species, including Crataegus songarica, have been traditionally used to support heart health. They are believed to: Improve blood circulation, Strengthen the heart muscle, Regulate blood pressure.
A person with mild hypertension incorporates Crataegus songarica supplements into their routine. Over time, they experience a noticeable improvement in their blood pressure readings, which could be attributed to the cardiovascular benefits of the plant.
2. Antioxidant Protection: The berries of Crataegus songarica are rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and proanthocyanidins. These antioxidants help: Neutralize harmful free radicals, Protect cells from oxidative stress, Reduce the risk of chronic diseaseas.
Someone concerned about aging and maintaining their overall health starts consuming Songar hawthorn berries regularly. They notice a boost in their energy levels and a reduction in the frequency of minor illnesses, potentially due to the antioxidant effects of the plant.
3. Digestive Aid: Crataegus songarica has been used as a mild digestive aid in some traditional practices. It may: Assist with indigestion and bloating, Have a gentle laxative effect.
A person who frequently experiences digestive discomfort incorporates Songar hawthorn tea into their post-meal routine. They find that the tea helps soothe their digestive system and reduces feelings of bloating after meals.
4. Anxiety and Sleep Support: Hawthorn berries, including those of Crataegus songarica, have been used historically to alleviate mild anxiety and improve sleep quality. Calming effects on the nervous system, Promotion of relaxation and better sleep.
An individual dealing with occasional stress and difficulty falling asleep starts drinking Songar hawthorn tea before bedtime. They notice that they feel more relaxed and fall asleep more easily, leading to better overall sleep quality.
5. Cholesterol Regulation: Some studies suggest that hawthorn extracts, including Crataegus songarica, might help regulate cholesterol levels by reducing LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and improving HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Management of cholesterol levels, Potential reduction in the risk of heart diseases.
Someone with elevated cholesterol levels adds Crataegus songarica supplements to their cholesterol-lowering regimen. After a few months, their cholesterol levels show improvement, indicating the plant’s potential impact on lipid management.
The Methods of Usage to Achieve the Provided Health Benefits of Crataegus Songarica (Songarica Hawthorn)
Here are the detailed methods of usage to achieve the provided medicinal health benefits of Crataegus songarica (Songar hawthorn):
1. Cardiovascular Support: To harness the cardiovascular benefits of Crataegus songarica, you can consume standardized hawthorn extract capsules or tablets. Dosages typically range from 300 mg to 1200 mg per day, divided into two to three doses.
Take one 600 mg hawthorn capsule twice daily with meals. Regular use over several weeks may help improve blood circulation and support heart health.
2. Antioxidant Protection: To enjoy the antioxidant benefits of Songar hawthorn:Dosage Includes fresh or dried Songar hawthorn berries in your diet or consume hawthorn berry tea.
Brew a cup of hawthorn berry tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried berries in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Drink this tea daily as part of your routine to provide your body with antioxidant protection.
3. Digestive Aid: To utilize the mild digestive aid properties of Crataegus songarica. Prepare and consume hawthorn berry tea.
Infuse 1 tablespoon of dried Songar hawthorn berries in a cup of hot water for 15 minutes. Drink this tea after meals to promote digestion and alleviate bloating.
4. Anxiety and Sleep Support: To experience the calming effects for anxiety and sleep. Consume hawthorn berry tea or tincture before bedtime.
Brew a cup of hawthorn berry tea using 1-2 teaspoons of dried berries. Drink the tea about 30 minutes before sleep. Alternatively, take 1-2 ml of hawthorn tincture before bed. Regular use may help relax the nervous system and improve sleep quality.
5. Cholesterol Regulation: To potentially regulate cholesterol levels using Crataegus songarica. Incorporate hawthorn extract into your daily routine. Consume 500 mg of standardized hawthorn extract twice daily with meals. Consistent use, combined with a balanced diet and exercise, may help manage cholesterol levels over time.
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The Side Effects of Using Crataegus Songarica Medicinal Plant
1. Digestive Upset: In some cases, consuming hawthorn berries or supplements may lead to mild digestive discomfort, such as upset stomach, nausea or diarrhea. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it can help reduce the likelihood of digestive issues.
3. Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Hawthorn may have a mild hypotensive effect, meaning it can lower blood pressure. While this can be beneficial for some individuals, those with already low blood pressure should be cautious and consult a doctor before using hawthorn supplements.
2. Drug Interactions: Hawthorn supplements can interact with certain medications, including those used for heart conditions, blood pressure regulation and blood-thinning. If you’re taking medications, especially for heart-related issues, consult a healthcare professional before using Crataegus songarica to avoid potential interactions.
4. Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to hawthorn are rare but possible. If you’re allergic to other plants in the Rosaceae family, such as apples, pears, or cherries, there’s a slight possibility of cross-reactivity. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
5. Interaction with Other Herbs and Supplements: Crataegus songarica might interact with other herbs, supplements, or natural remedies. If you’re using multiple herbal remedies, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional to ensure there are no potential negative interactions.
6. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Limited research is available regarding the safety of using Crataegus songarica during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s recommended to avoid its use during these periods to err on the side of caution.
7. Children: The safety of hawthorn supplements for children hasn’t been well-studied. It’s best to avoid using them in children without consulting a pediatrician.
Nutritional Value of Crataegus Songarica (Songar Hawthorn)
1. Flavonoids: Crataegus songarica leaves and fruits are rich in flavonoids, which act as powerful antioxidants, helping to combat oxidative stress and support cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation.
2. Phenolic Acids: These compounds, such as chlorogenic and caffeic acids, contribute to the plant’s high antioxidant capacity, potentially protecting cells from damage and aiding in the prevention of chronic diseases.
3. Proanthocyanidins: Found in the berries, proanthocyanidins provide anti-inflammatory effects and may support heart health by strengthening blood vessels and reducing cholesterol levels.
4. Oligomeric Procyanidins: These polyphenols in the extracts enhance the plant’s cardioprotective properties, helping to improve endothelial function and lower blood pressure.
5. Vitamins (Vitamin C): The black fruits contain vitamin C, which boosts immune function and acts as an antioxidant, supporting collagen synthesis and overall tissue health.
6. Carbohydrates: The fruits offer carbohydrates as a natural energy source, making them a traditional edible component with mild nutritional value for daily sustenance.
7. Minerals (Potassium): Potassium in the leaves and fruits helps regulate fluid balance and supports muscle contractions, contributing to cardiovascular and kidney health.
8. Tannins: These astringent compounds in the bark and leaves provide antioxidant benefits and may aid digestion by reducing gut inflammation and promoting wound healing.
9. Terpenoids: Present in the essential oils of the plant, terpenoids exhibit antimicrobial properties, supporting immune defense against infections.
10. Saponins: Trace saponins in the extracts may enhance cholesterol-lowering effects and provide mild immune-boosting benefits, aligning with traditional medicinal uses.
Crataegus songarica’s nutritional profile, particularly its antioxidant-rich compounds, makes it a valuable plant for heart health and oxidative stress management, though it is primarily used medicinally rather than as a staple food, with caution advised for consumption due to potential interactions.
Scientific Evidence and Case Studies on Crataegus Songarica (Songar Hawthorn)
1. Ganie et al. (2014): This study investigated the methanolic extract of Crataegus songarica leaves against CCl4- and paracetamol-induced liver damage in rats, demonstrating significant hepatoprotective effects through in vitro and ex vivo antioxidant activity, reducing lipid peroxidation and enhancing enzyme levels like SOD and CAT, supporting its folkloric use for toxicological diseases (Ganie, S. A., Dar, T. A., Bhat, A. H., Sharma, M. P., & Zargar, B., 2014).
2. Khan et al. (2015): Researchers evaluated the methanol extract of Crataegus songarica on CCl4-induced kidney and heart damage in albino rats, showing reduced serum creatinine, urea, and cholesterol levels by up to 59.74%, along with decreased MDA and increased antioxidant enzymes like GSH and GPx, indicating protective effects against organ toxicity (Khan, M. A., Khan, M. A., & Ahmed, S., 2015).
3. Younis et al. (2021): This research examined hawthorn berry extracts from Crataegus songarica on porcine coronary arteries, revealing endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation primarily through nitric oxide pathways and potassium channels, suggesting benefits for vascular health and hypertension management (Younis, W., Alamgeer, Schini-Kerth, V. B., Farooq, M. A., Althobaiti, M., Roberts, R. E., & Hamed, M. S., 2021).
4. Tariq et al. (2014): The study assessed crude extracts and fractions of Crataegus songarica for antibacterial and antifungal activity against six strains, including Bacillus subtilis and Candida albicans, with significant inhibition zones, highlighting its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent for infectious diseases (Tariq, S. A., Nisar, M., Khan, H., & Shah, M. R., 2014).
5. Younis et al. (2023): In glucose-induced hypertensive rats, the fruit extract of Crataegus songarica prevented increases in systolic blood pressure, oxidative stress markers, and endothelial dysfunction, while improving metabolic parameters, confirming its cardioprotective role against hypertension and related complications (Younis, W., Alamgeer, Schini-Kerth, V. B., Farooq, M. A., Althobaiti, M., Roberts, R. E., & Hamed, M. S., 2023).
6. Khan et al. (2015): This in vitro study tested methanol, ethanol, and ethyl acetate extracts of Crataegus songarica on six cancer cell lines, exhibiting potent cytotoxic activity with IC50 values from 28.57 to 85.106 µg/mL, and preventing DNA damage, indicating strong anticancer potential (Khan, M. A., Khan, M. A., & Ahmed, S., 2015).
Frequently Asked Questions About Crataegus Songarica (Songar Hawthorn)
1. What is Crataegus songarica used for?
It is traditionally used in folk medicine to treat heart problems, hypertension, liver toxicity, infections, and as an antioxidant, with fruits consumed for cardiovascular health.
2. Is Crataegus songarica safe to consume?
Generally safe in moderate amounts as per traditional use, but high doses may interact with heart medications; consult a healthcare provider, especially for those with cardiovascular conditions.
3. What are the health benefits of Crataegus songarica?
Studies show it protects against oxidative stress, supports liver and heart health, exhibits antimicrobial activity, and may help manage hypertension and cancer cell growth.
4. Where is Crataegus songarica native to?
It is native to Central Asia, including regions like Xinjiang in China, Iran, and parts of the Himalayas, growing on limestone or granite in temperate areas.
5. Are the fruits of Crataegus songarica edible?
Yes, the black fruits are edible and sometimes eaten for their mild nutritional value and heart-healthy properties, though they are more commonly used medicinally.
6. How does Crataegus songarica help with heart health?
Its extracts promote vasorelaxation, reduce blood pressure, and protect against tissue damage, as shown in studies on hypertensive models and endothelial function.
7. Can Crataegus songarica treat infections?
Yes, its extracts demonstrate antibacterial and antifungal activity against pathogens like Bacillus subtilis and Candida albicans, supporting traditional uses for infectious diseases.
8. What are the main compounds in Crataegus songarica?
Key bioactive compounds include flavonoids, phenolic acids, proanthocyanidins, and tannins, which contribute to its antioxidant and cardioprotective effects.
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Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. The health benefits described are based on scientific research and traditional knowledge. They are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any herb or natural remedy for medical purposes.
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