POTENTIAL APPLICATION OF HAWTHORN IN NEUROLOGY

Objective: To assess the antioxidant, anticoagulant, and antiplatelet properties of various species from the genus Crataegus L. and to select the most promising candidates for neurological applications. Material and methods: The study utilized the shoots and berries of six introduced species from the genus Crataegus L. and one wild species. The species examined included: 1. Crataegus pennsylvanica Ashe (Pennsylvania hawthorn) 2. Crataegus almaatensis Pojark (Almaty hawthorn) 3. Crataegus rivularis Nutt. (River hawthorn) 4. Crataegus submollis Sarg. (Soft-leaved hawthorn) 5. Crataegus prunifolia (Poir.) Pers. (Plum-leaved hawthorn) 6. Crataegus macracantha Lodd. ex Loudon (Large-thorned hawthorn) 7. A wild species, Crataegus sanguinea Pall (Red hawthorn) Two variations of chemiluminescence tests were employed to evaluate these species' antioxidant activity (AOA) and quantify the decrease in light emission. The anticoagulant properties were assessed through coagulation tests, while Born's optical platelet aggregometry was utilized to determine antiplatelet activity. All experimental data obtained were statistically analyzed. Results: The highest AOA levels were found in the berries and shoots of C. almaatensis, C. sanguinea, and C. submollis. The most significant effects on the plasma component of the hemostasis system were noted in the berries of C. sanguinea, C. submollis, C. rivularis, and the shoots of C. macracantha. In assessing antiplatelet (AP) effects, the highest measurements were recorded in the berries and shoots of C. submollis, C. sanguinea, C. rivularis, and C. almaatensis. Conclusion: The berries of C. amanuensis and the berries and shoots of C. sanguinea, C. submollis, and C. rivularis are the most promising species for further research and development of effective herbal medicines for use in neurology. Keywords: The genus Crataegus L., oxidative stress, antioxidant activity, chemiluminescence, anticoagulant properties, antiplatelet properties, Born method.