Crataegus gracilior

Crataegus gracilior, commonly known as Mexican hawthorn or tejocote, is a plant species native to Mexico whose extracts are traditionally used in Mexican folk medicine. Research has demonstrated that petroleum ether extracts of its leaves and stems possess cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic activities against breast cancer cells, which are attributed to bioactive compounds such as β-sitosterol and tocopherol. Additionally, methanol and aqueous extracts of its leaves, fruits, and flowers have shown vasorelaxant and cardioprotective properties, suggesting potential therapeutic utility in cardiovascular diseases like hypertension.

Other names

Mexican hawthorntejocote