crataegus pinnatifida

Crataegus pinnatifida is a species of hawthorn native to China and East Asia. Its fruit is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and as a food ingredient. In TCM, the dried fruit (shan zha/生山楂) is primarily used as a digestive aid to promote digestion of meat and fatty foods by stimulating the production or activity of digestive enzymes such as proteases and lipases and increasing bile secretion[5][6]. It has also been traditionally employed for treating indigestion, hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), blood stasis disorders, heart-related symptoms (such as chest pain or palpitations), hypertension (high blood pressure), amenorrhea, abdominal pain or bloating after eating heavy meals[6][7][8]. Modern research indicates that Crataegus pinnatifida contains flavonoids and other polyphenols with antioxidant properties; it may have anti-inflammatory effects[3], help lower blood pressure by vasodilation[3], reduce cholesterol levels[7], improve cardiovascular health by supporting heart function and circulation[10], exhibit antithrombotic effects, support neuroprotection, and potentially possess anti-tumor activities[6]. The plant’s main active constituents include flavonoids (e.g., vitexin), phenylpropanoids, terpenoids, organic acids, saccharides and essential oils. It is commonly consumed orally in various forms including dried slices for decoction/tea or incorporated into foods like jams or candies.

Other names

crataegus pinnatifidaChinese hawthornChinese hawmountain hawthornshan zha生山楂