As we move through 2026, we continue with our alphabetical rundown, or ‘Alphabet Soup,’ of worthwhile supplements. Here we offer you a gander at three effective ‘H’ supplements which have the potential to positively benefit your health. Have you heard of these three products before? Take a look at the herbally-derived extracts of both the hawthorn shrub and a unique mushroom, and the benefits of naturally-derived hyaluronic acid.
Hawthorn extract: Hawthorn is a fruit-producing shrub. Multiple parts of this plant possess properties that can support heart health. The leaves and flowers of hawthorn contain a combination of nutrients as well as beneficial polyphenols and triterpenoids. Hawthorn berries are also beneficial. All components of hawthorn have an established pattern of utilization for medicinal purposes in Europe and America, and are also used in China. Its benefits are strong, which make it able to support heart health in multiple ways. Research suggests that consuming hawthorn helps to manage blood pressure, specifically diastolic blood pressure. This, as well as its ability to support blood sugar management and enhance metabolism of lipid cholesterols (which are carried in the blood), make hawthorn noticeably beneficial for your long-term heart health. Studies suggest hawthorn could actually reduce risk of death due to heart failure. An oral capsule containing extracts of multiple parts of the hawthorn plant, or hawthorn combined with other positively impactful herbs, is recommended for heart health.
Hericium erinaceus is the scientific nomenclature for the mushroom known as Lion’s Mane, because of its soft-spined, hairlike appearance. Lion’s mane has culinary and medicinal uses in China, India, and other nations in the eastern world. Research supports the usage of H. erinaceus for benefits to memory, mood and mental health, and long-term cognitive health. For example, studies show that compounds in Lion’s Mane extract can stimulate the growth of brain cells. Extracts can also reduce damage from amyloid-beta plaques, which are a primary contributor to Alzheimer’s disease. Separately, research suggests Lion’s Mane has anti-inflammatory properties that could mitigate the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Multiple areas of research on H. erinaceus also reveal benefits to cardiovascular health, immune health, and the reduced risk of disease. All these benefits make this mushroom a powerfully healthy natural extract.
Hyaluronic acid: The human body is naturally comprised of many types of substances with different functions. Hyaluronic acid is a lubricating and hydrating substance found in joints, skin, and eyes. This functional substance is also harvested from natural sources (often, extracted from the combs of a rooster) and implemented into medicinal products that can benefit you. Hyaluronic acid is a constituent in multiple types of health products. In oral supplement form, it can benefit the skin by helping enhance its flexibility and elasticity. It can also benefit joints, as it could contribute to the remission of soft tissue injuries, and also support wellbeing of arthritis joints. Because it is naturally present in the body, the potential uses of an oral hyaluronic acid supplement are certainly worth consideration.
All three of these ‘H’ supplements are unique in their applications. Hawthorn extract can meaningfully benefit your heart; Hericium erinaceus can support memory and mental wellbeing; and hyaluronic acid can support joint and skin health in noticeable ways. We always recommend that you speak to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.