Hawthorn, whitethorn

Leaves, flowering tops and fruits of the bush are used. It contains glycoside-type flavonoids with similar action as digoxin. As for traditional use, their attributed properties are poorly evidence-based: cardiotonic, antianginal, antiarrhythmic, hypnotic ^{(EMA 2014, Holubarsch 2008, Prescrire 2005, Rigelsky 2002, WHO 2002)}. Indication by the Commission E of German Ministry of Health: heart failure. ^{(Blumenthal 1998)}

At latest update no published data on excretion into breast milk was found.

Few and mild side effects have been described ^{(Daniele 2006)}. Given their lack of toxicity with usual doses, consumption at minimal doses and for short periods during lactation would have little or no risk.

The studies that attempted to show a galactogogue effect are scarce with very poor quality and inappropriated methodology ^{(Nikolov 1951)}. The best galactogogue result may be obtain by frequent on-demand breastfeeding and a proper technique. Do not use it as galactogogue without medical control. ^{(ABM 2018 y 2011, Anderson 2013, Mortel 2013, Forinash 2012, Mannion 2012)}

Precautions when taking plant preparations ^{(Anderson 2017, Powers 2015, Posadzki 2013, Efferth 2011, Kopec 1999, Hsu 1995)}:

• Make sure they are from a reliable source: Poisonings have occurred from mistaking one plant for another with toxic properties ^{(Cornara 2018, Hsu 1995)}, poisonings due to heavy metals that the plants extract from the soil, and food poisonings from contamination with bacteria or fungi. ^{(Anderson 2017)}
• Do not take in excess; follow recommendations from expert phytotherapy professionals. “Natural” products are not good in any quantity: plants contain active substances from which much of our traditional pharmacopoeia has been obtained and can cause intoxications or act as endocrine disruptors if consumed in exaggerated quantity or time, as they contain phytoestrogens. ^{(Powers 2015, Zava 1998)}