Why we selected this company:

Gaia Herbs and Professional Solutions strive to produce pure plant medicines of exceptional quality and purity while enriching the ecology of the earth and the health and harmony of the people that use their phyto-medicines.  Gia Herbs’ mission is all about organics and making phyto-medicines with the highest degree of quality and integrity. To this end, Gaia Herbs and Professional Solutions have proudly invested in cultivation of 250 acres of certified organically grown herbs on our own farm in North Carolina. Our efforts in science & research yield unsurpassed quality botanical medicines.

Why we selected this product:

Antihypertensive effect of Iranian Crataegus curvisepala Lind.: a randomized, double-blind study.

Asgary S, Naderi GH, Sadeghi M, Kelishadi R, Amiri M.

Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Center, Sedigheh Tahereh Hospital, Isfahan, Iran. bsr@mui.ac.ir

The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential antihypertensive effects of extracts of the flavonoid-rich Iranian flower, Crataegus curvisepala Lind., a member of the Rosaceae family. The hydroalcoholic extract of the leaves and flowers were studied in a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to determine its effects. A total of 92 men and women with primary mild hypertension, aged 40-60 years, were selected and divided randomly into two groups, receiving either hydroalcoholic extract of C. curvisepala Lind. or placebo three times daily for more than 4 months. Blood pressure (BP) was measured each month. Statistical analysis was carried out using Student's t-test. The results obtained showed a significant decrease in both systolic and diastolic BP after 3 months (p < 0.05). C. curvisepala has a time-dependent antihypertensive effect.

PMID: 15700749 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Drugs Exp Clin Res. 2004;30(5-6):221-5.

Benefits for the body:
Helps to Support Blood Pressure within Normal Range
Rich Source of Plant Flavonoids a Powerful Plant Antioxidant
Supports the Cardiovascular System

Interesting factors:
Hawthorn trees grow readily in the northern temperate zones of North America, Europe and East Asia. Each of these zones appreciates a long traditional history of Hawthorn as both food and folk remedy. The earliest records declared the Hawthorn tree as a symbol of marriage, love and hope. Later, it gained a reputation for its properties. For the American Eclectics, Hawthorn was considered specific for maintaining heart function. The Chinese and Native Americans used Hawthorn to promote healthy circulation. For all cultures blessed with Hawthorn trees, the berries provided food. It is the berries, flowers, and leaves used primarily as a cardiac tonic. Reported uses also include digestive tonic.

The nutritional benefits extend to the cardiovascular system, as Hawthorn is considered specifically nourishing to the system. Rich bioflavonoids are present in Hawthorn, and may help offset the lack of bioflavonoids in typical American foods. These bioflavonoids promote connective and cardiovascular tissue integrity. There are two groups of active flavonoids in Hawthorn. One group of flavonoids promotes normal rhythmic activity of the heart, while the other group reinforces the collagen tissue of the cardiovascular system.

Ingredients:
ALCOHOL-FREE CONCENTRATED EXTRACTS OF:
FORMULA MG EXTRACT PER 2 CAPSULES
Hawthorn berry (Crataegus spp.) 240 mg
Hawthorn leaf & flower (Crataegus spp.) 100 mg
STANDARDIZED TO FULL SPECTRUM ACTIVITY PROFILE
Oligomeric procyanidins 40 mg

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.  If in doubt consult with a licensed naturopathic physician before use.  Physicians at Genesis Health Systems can be reached at 480.284.8155 and we are happy to consult with you about this product and helping you achieve optimal health.