Research Progress on The Chemical Composition And Pharmacological Effects of Hawthron (Crataegus spp.): A Review

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.), a member of the Rosaceae family, is a common plant in the northern temperate areas used as an ornamental tree since the Middle Ages. The pharmacological studies reveal that hawthorn is not only rich in diverse range of macronutrients and micronutrients but also contains abundant bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, triterpenoids, organic acids, and polysaccharides. These components collectively confer hawthorn with multifaceted pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular protective, antiaging, and digestive-promoting effects. In light of the potential health benefits of hawthorn, this review aims to provide an up-to-date introduction on the main bioactive components, pharmacological mechanisms, pharmacokinetic characteristics, adverse reactions, and clinical applications of hawthorn, thereby providing a theoretical basis for its further development and utilization.