The Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) Value Chain: An Integrated Analysis of Resource Availability, Phytochemical Characterization, and Therapeutic Applications

Hawthorn is widely distributed across China, including Shanxi, Henan, Hebei, Shandong, and Shaanxi provinces. It is rich in functional components and nutritional elements, making it a crucial raw material for medicinal and food products. This review provides comprehensive information of the distribution of hawthorn germplasm resources in China and compares the differences in nutrient composition, chemical substances, and functional activities among different species. Furthermore, it offers a statistical analysis of the diversified processing and applications of hawthorn in China. Finally, the review identifies current challenges in the agro-food industries and states the future outlook of the industry. By systematically integrating research findings into a comprehensive "resource-characterization-application" framework, the study addresses the current fragmentation and lack of systematic organization in hawthorn research. It seeks to provide a scientific basis for directional breeding, strategic planning of production areas, precise product development, and high-quality development of the hawthorn industry in years to come.