Codio Vascular - Herbalmedicine

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Herbal Medicine for Cardiovascular Diseases: Efficacy, Mechanisms, and

Safety
Article in Frontiers in Pharmacology · April 2020

DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00422
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REVIEW
published: 07 April 2020
doi: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00422
Herbal Medicine for Cardiovascular

Diseases: Efficacy, Mechanisms, and
Safety
Abdullah Shaito 1, Duong Thi Bich Thuan 2, Hoa Thi Phu 2, Thi Hieu Dung Nguyen 3,
Hiba Hasan 4, Sarah Halabi 5, Samar Abdelhady 6, Gheyath K. Nasrallah 7*, Ali H. Eid 7,8*
and Gianfranco Pintus 9,10*
1 Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon, 2 Department of
Biochemistry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue City, Vietnam, 3 Department of Physiology,
University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue City, Vietnam, 4 Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus
Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany, 5 Biology Department, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of
Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon, 6 Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt, 7 Department of Biomedical Sciences,
Edited by: College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar, 8 Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American
Yue Liu, University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon, 9 Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United
Xiyuan Hospital, China Arab Emirates, 10 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
Reviewed by:
Guanwei Fan, Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a significant health burden with an ever-increasing
Tianjin University of Traditional
Chinese Medicine, China
prevalence. They remain the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The use
Yanfei Liu, of medicinal herbs continues to be an alternative treatment approach for several diseases
Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,
including CVDs. Currently, there is an unprecedented drive for the use of herbal
China
preparations in modern medicinal systems. This drive is powered by several aspects,
*Correspondence:
Ali H. Eid prime among which are their cost-effective therapeutic promise compared to standard
[email protected] modern therapies and the general belief that they are safe. Nonetheless, the claimed
Gianfranco Pintus
[email protected];
safety of herbal preparations yet remains to be properly tested. Consequently, public
[email protected] awareness should be raised regarding medicinal herbs safety, toxicity, potentially life-
Gheyath K. Nasrallah
threatening adverse effects, and possible herb–drug interactions. Over the years,
[email protected]
laboratory data have shown that medicinal herbs may have therapeutic value in CVDs
Specialty section: as they can interfere with several CVD risk factors. Accordingly, there have been many
This article was submitted to
attempts to move studies on medicinal herbs from the bench to the bedside, in order to
Ethnopharmacology,
a section of the journal effectively employ herbs in CVD treatments. In this review, we introduce CVDs and their
Frontiers in Pharmacology risk factors. Then we overview the use of herbs for disease treatment in general and CVDs
Received: 04 November 2019 in particular. Further, data on the ethnopharmacological therapeutic potentials and
Accepted: 19 March 2020
Published: 07 April 2020
medicinal properties against CVDs of four widely used plants, namely Ginseng, Ginkgo
Citation:
biloba, Ganoderma lucidum, and Gynostemma pentaphyllum, are gathered and reviewed.
Shaito A, Thuan DTB, Phu HT, In particular, the employment of these four plants in the context of CVDs, such as
Nguyen THD, Hasan H, Halabi S,
myocardial infarction, hypertension, peripheral vascular diseases, coronary heart disease,
Abdelhady S, Nasrallah GK, Eid AH
and Pintus G (2020) Herbal Medicine cardiomyopathies, and dyslipidemias has been reviewed, analyzed, and critically
for Cardiovascular Diseases: Efficacy, discussed. We also endeavor to document the recent studies aimed to dissect the
Mechanisms, and Safety.
Front. Pharmacol. 11:422.
cellular and molecular cardio-protective mechanisms of the four plants, using recently
doi: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00422 reported in vitro and in vivo studies. Finally, we reviewed and reported the results of the
Frontiers in Pharmacology | www.frontiersin.org 1 April 2020 | Volume 11 | Article 422

Shaito et al. Herbs as Drugs for Cardiovascular Diseases
recent clinical trials that have been conducted using these four medicinal herbs with
special emphasis on their efficacy, safety, and toxicity.
Keywords: herbal medicine, cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, hypertension, medicinal plants,
antioxidants, oxidative stress, inflammation
INTRODUCTION suffer a stroke due to vascular impairment. Major culprits in

vascular impairment include atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are diseases of the heart or high blood pressure (BP). Common risk factors for CVDs
blood vessels. CVDs register a global annual toll of more than include smoking, unhealthy diet, diabetes mellitus,
17 million deaths. As a result, CVDs remain the world's most hyperlipidemia, elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein
common cause of death and are a major economic and health cholesterol (LDL), suppressed levels of high-density lipoprotein
burden, worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) cholesterol (HDL), and hypertension (Figure 1) (World Health
reported that CVDs account for 31% of annual global deaths Organization, 2017).
(World Health Organization, 2017). In Europe, CVDs account CVDs prevention is favored by a healthy vascular
for 45% of all deaths according to the European Cardiovascular endothelium. A healthy endothelium exhibits vasodilatory,
Disease Statistics 2017 (Martinet et al., 2019). The American anti-atherogenic, and anti-inflamma tory properties
Heart Association's current statistics estimate that around half of (Celermajer, 1997). Several risk factors for CVDs lead to
the population of the USA has a form of CVD (Benjamin endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction, which has been implicated as
et al., 2019). a key event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, coronary
CVDs are a variety of diseases including peripheral vascular vasoconstriction, and, probably, myocardial ischemia.
diseases, coronary heart disease (CHD), heart failure, heart Interestingly, EC dysfunction is a reversible phenomenon,
attack (myocardial infarction), stroke, cardiomyopathies, which opens the door for CVD therapies based on its reversion
dyslipidemias, and hypertension, among others (Figure 1) (Figure 1) (Celermajer, 1997).
(Toth, 2007; Reiner et al., 2019). CVDs majorly originate from Recently, inflammation has been confirmed as a risk factor for
a vascular dysfunction, which then leads to organ damage. For CVDs, especially during atherosclerosis and coronary artery
example, the heart can suffer a heart attack, or the brain can disease. High levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-
FIGURE 1 | Pathological processes involved in the development and progression of CVDs. Several risk factors can predispose to CVDs. These can include
hypertension, smoking, dyslipidemia stemming from an unhealthy diet, or endocrinopathies like diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, and aging. The risk factors can
lead to pathological alterations most of which can be due to endothelial dysfunction or VSMC alterations. Endothelial dysfunction or VSMC alterations increase the
risk of developing atherosclerosis and hypertension. Atherosclerosis and hypertension are themselves CVDs risk factors and enhancers for the development of other
CVDs like myocardial infarction, coronary artery diseases, or stroke. VSMC, vascular smooth muscle cell; ECM, extracellular matrix; NO, nitric oxide; eNOS,
endothelial nitric oxide synthase; iNOS, inducible nitric oxide synthase; Ox-LDL, oxidized low-density lipoprotein.

CRP) and/or interleukin-6 (IL-6) are associated with higher until later stages of the disease (Sawicka et al., 2011). Because of
absolute cardiovascular risk (Ridker et al., 1997; Ridker et al., this, it is not surprising that hypertension affects 1.4 billion
2000), where the CANTOS study, for the first time, established people and accounts for about 9.4 million deaths per year
reduced rates of cardiovascular events following an anti- (Cooper et al., 2017; Egan et al., 2019). Lastly, hypertension
interleukin-1 beta (IL-1b) based therapy, independent of prevalence is estimated to have a 30% worldwide increase by
cholesterol levels (Ridker et al., 2017). Furthermore, common 2025 (Kearney et al., 2005).
CVDs risk factors, such as diabetes or hypertension, can The American Heart Association Hypertension Guidelines
predispose to CVDs by the mediation of inflammation define hypertension as a persistent elevation of BP in the arteries
(Dokken, 2008; Aday and Ridker, 2018). [systolic BP (SBP) higher than 130/diastolic BP (DBP) higher than
In the case of atherosclerosis, for example, inflammation can 80 mm Hg] (Muntner et al., 2018). If an elevated BP is left
cause EC functional impairment. Dysfunctional ECs allow the unmanaged, it can induce arterial remodeling; the walls of small
accumulation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles in the vessels thicken, and the vessels lose their elasticity and become
vessel wall intima where they become modified into oxidized LDL. narrower. This process is called arteriosclerosis and can lead to
Oxidized LDL can then activate the dysfunctional ECs to expose “target organ damage” (TOD) (Triantafyllidi et al., 2010; Fan et al.,
cell adhesion molecules (VCAM-1 and ICAM-1) that bind to and 2017). TOD affects several organs such as the brain, kidney, or
recruit inflammatory leukocytes (T-cells and monocytes) into the retina and may lead to death (Mensah, 2016; Abegaz et al., 2017).
subendothelial space (Davies et al., 1993; Moore and Tabas, 2011). Arteriosclerosis can be witnessed in coronary vessels where it may
These inflammatory blood cells secrete interleukins and cytokines, cause a myocardial infarction (Rakugi et al., 1996). In the brain,
produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thus form an inflamed arteriosclerosis can cause vessel lumen narrowing, vessel wall
microenvironment within the arterial wall. The inflamed hardening, and blood clot formation, potentially causing a stroke
microenvironment promotes vascular smooth muscle cell (Johansson, 1999). Strokes have effects on cognitive and physical
(VSMC) proliferation, matrix build-up, and lipid deposition, behaviors, and may result in dementia, paralysis, or death (Abegaz
leading to the formation of an atherosclerotic plaque. The et al., 2017). Nephrosclerosis of the kidney is also due to
monocytes can reach the intima of the vessel, differentiate into arteriosclerosis which stiffens the nephron, ultimately affecting
macrophages, and uptake oxidized LDL to become foam cells renal filtration and causing electrolyte imbalances (Bidani and
(Tabas et al., 2007; Moore and Tabas, 2011; Douglas and Channon, Griffin, 2004; Lim et al., 2016). Overall, TOD proceed through
2014; Saleh Al-Shehabi et al., 2016; Martinet et al., 2019). Gradual hypertension-induced microvascular injuries in the cases of
intimal thickening takes place over the years and continues to retinopathy and nephropathy and through hypertension-induced
expand causing decreased or complete occlusion of blood flow to macrovascular injuries in the cases of stroke and myocardial
organs, ultimately resulting in CVDs, such as myocardial infarctions (Nadar, 2011).
infarction or stroke (Maguire et al., 2019). In addition, VSMCs BP regulation, and therefore hypertension, depends on two
proliferation leads to narrowing of the arterial lumen and main factors: cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance.
dysregulation of the vasotone (Douglas and Channon, 2014). Increased cardiac output or vascular resistance elevate BP.
Usually several atherosclerotic plaques form in the intima and Cardiac output is majorly affected by sodium intake, renal
one of these may end up undergoing a necrotic breakdown, leading function, and mineralocorticoids. Vascular resistance is affected
to acute luminal thrombosis, blood vessel occlusion, and by the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), rennin–angiotensin
cardiovascular complications, including myocardial infarction, system (RAS), humoral factors, and local autoregulation
unstable angina (chest pain caused by heart muscle ischemia), (DiBona, 2013). SNS and RAS exert their effects mainly by
sudden cardiac death, or a stroke (Virmani et al., 2002). As a result, eliciting vasoconstriction and inducing sodium retention.
atherosclerosis is not only a risk factor but also a major contributor Humoral mediators can be vasoconstrictors like endothelin,
to CVD incidence. Around 50% of all deaths in developed angiotensin II, catecholamines, or vasodilators, for instance
countries are due to atherosclerosis (Tedgui and Mallat, 2006). nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandins, and kinins (Oparil et al.,
Hypertension also referred to as high BP, is a CVD and a 2003). Other factors that can modulate BP include blood flow
major risk factor and contributor to other CVDs and other velocity, blood viscosity, vascular wall stiffness, oxidative stress of
diseases (2017). Hypertension is an independent predisposing VSMCs or ECs, VSMCs proliferation and shape changes, and EC
factor for heart failure, coronary artery disease, stroke, health (Rodrigo et al., 2011).
retinopathy, nephropathy, and peripheral arterial diseases Despite advances in CVD management and treatment, CVDs
(Sawicka et al., 2011; NCD Risk Factor Collaboration, 2017). still claim more lives than the combination of all cancer forms
Most of these diseases are associated with high mortality and (Mozaffarian et al., 2015). As a result, in recent years there has
morbidity (Abegaz et al., 2017). Additionally, hypertension is the been major enforcement on CVD prevention (Reiner et al.,
single most significant risk factor for atherosclerosis, and any 2019). Therefore, new treatment options are urgently
clinical outcome of atherosclerosis thereof (Sawicka et al., 2011). warranted for all types of CVDs, considering the continued
Hypertension is a “silent killer” as it does not show symptoms burden stemming from CVDs is still substantial.

HERBAL AND PLANT PRODUCTS AS anticancer drugs were derived from natural products in that same
MEDICINAL DRUGS period (Harvey, 2000).
Despite the many successes of using natural products for drug
Traditional medicine and ethnomedicine, defined as the study of the production, advances in combinatorial chemistry (in the late
traditional medicines practiced by various ethnic groups, are as old 1980s) shifted the focus of drug discovery efforts from natural
as human history. Traditional medicine historically relied on natural products to synthesis at the laboratory bench (Cragg and
resources as medications. Historically, herbs, generally defined as Newman, 2013). This is mainly because natural product-based
any form of plant or plant product (Tachjian et al., 2010), and plant drug discovery and development is a complex endeavor
extracts formed the basis of the first drugs used in traditional demanding costly and highly integrated interdisciplinary
medicine systems of many cultures and civilizations. Plants and approaches (Davison and Brimble, 2019; Otvos et al., 2019).
herbs have always been a common source of medications, either in Nonetheless, currently the use of natural products as drugs or as
the form of traditional extracts or as pure active compounds drug discovery platforms is “well and alive” (Newman and
(Fabricant and Farnsworth, 2001). Evidently, nature is a very Cragg, 2016). In fact, traditional herbal and plant-derived
important source for finding new drugs that leads to the extracts are becoming main stream as advances in scientific
treatment of diseases. Famous drugs from herbal and plant research are showing their importance in the prevention and
sources include aspirin from the Salix alba L. tree, digoxin treatment of diseases (Frishman et al., 2009).
(cardiac glycoside) from Digitalis purpurea, ephedrine from Numerous and chemically diverse secondary metabolites
Ephedra sinica, lovastatin from Monascus purpureus L., taxol have been purified from plant bioactives and have been
from Taxus brevifolia, reserpine from Rauvolfia serpentina, and optimized for exerting a biological effect, nonetheless, they are
many others (Harvey, 2000; Frishman et al., 2009; Cragg and still away from exhaustive investigation for clinical use. However,
Newman, 2013). Interestingly, reserpine is still an effective recent published scientific evidence, technological advances, and
treatment for hypertension (Weber et al., 2014). Notably, the research trends clearly point that naturally-derived compounds
discovery of antimalarial drugs, quinine from the bark of will be major sources of new drugs (Davison and Brimble, 2019;
Cinchona species and artemisinin from Artemisia annua L., Otvos et al., 2019). This has provided a driving cause for the
represent a typical example of how ethnomedicine can guide drug renewed popularity of traditional herbal and plant-derived
discovery (Cragg and Newman, 2013). medications among researchers, despite developments in
The earliest records of drugs of natural origin, found in combinatorial chemical synthesis and the production of
Mesopotamia (from around 2600 BCE), describe the use of modern synthetic drugs (Frishman et al., 2009).
approximately 1000 plant-derived compounds. The best record Another reason for the regained interest in medicinal plant
of using natural extracts in therapy is the Egyptians' Ebers Papyrus products is that, in their attempts to control diseases amid scarce
(from 1500 BCE), which documents more than 700 natural drugs, socioeconomic resources, rural communities in developing
mainly of plant origin. The Chinese Materia Medica record (BCE countries have found resort in traditional herbal and plant-
1100) describes 52 natural medicinal preparations, and the Indian derived remedies. This is due to several factors, but in particular
Ayurvedic record (BCE 1000) describes more than 800 natural to the fact that plant-based medicines are a cheaper alternative with
medicinal extracts (Cragg and Newman, 2013; Otvos et al., 2019). fewer side effects (Frishman et al., 2009; Tabassum and Ahmad,
Hippocrates also applied phytotherapy, or healing with herbs, in 2011). Herbal and plant remedies are not only economical, but they
his treatments (Otvos et al., 2019). also contain thousands of bioactive components that have known
In 1985 WHO estimated that around 65% of the world therapeutic applications (Pan et al., 2013). Additionally, because
population mostly depended on plant-derived traditional herbs are viewed as food products, they are not subject to the same
medicines (Farnsworth et al., 1985). People in different countries surveillance and regulation as conventional drugs. Moreover, herbal
have come to use identical or comparable plants or herbal remedies are viewed by patients as being natural and therefore safe.
preparations for the prevention and/or treatment of physical and However, more research efforts are required to validate the efficacy
mental illnesses. Traditional Medicine Centers of the WHO and the safety profile of such medicaments since many have adverse
identified 122 compounds to be commonly used in the Center's outcomes that can sometimes have life-threatening effects. It should
host countries. Interestingly, the 122 compounds have been also be noted that there is concern regarding herb–drug interaction
reported to derive from only 94 plant species and are used for (Tachjian et al., 2010; Anwar et al., 2016; Yuan et al., 2016).
similar ethnomedical treatments in the different host countries One more reason for the revived interest in natural products is
(Farnsworth et al., 1985). Examples of such compounds include that the biological activity and structural diversity of natural
galegine, from Galega officinalis L., the base for the synthesis of products are unmatched by any available synthetic drug screening
metformin and similar bisguanidine-type antidiabetic drugs, and library (Davison and Brimble, 2019). Natural products have been
papaverine from Papaver somniferum which is the base for making selected by nature for bioactivity, over millions of years. As a result,
the antihypertensive drug verapamil (Fabricant and Farnsworth, natural product screening libraries need not be superfluously big, as
2001). Commercially, drug production from natural products such is the case with synthetic drug screening libraries. In addition,
as herbs is a viable commodity, where 39% of the 520 new drugs natural products need only minor structural changes to optimize
approved between 1983 and 1994 were natural compounds or their drugability (Harvey, 2000; Gerry and Schreiber, 2018). As
derived from natural compounds and 60–80% of antibacterial and such, natural products offer “privileged scaffolds” and serve as

biologically “pre-validated platforms” for the design of compound 2018; Reiner et al., 2019). Prior to the recommendations of the
candidate drug libraries (Davison and Brimble, 2019). Recent CANTOS study, conventional therapy regimens have neglected
progress has focused on improving the potency, selectivity, and the role of inflammation in atherosclerosis (Weber and Noels,
pharmacokinetics of bioactive natural products through structural 2011). It is very important to highlight that complementary and
modifications, which has led to the production of novel drug-like alternative medicine (CAM), including herbal remedies, have
lead compounds. These structural changes are often required, as already tackled the inflammatory arm of atherosclerosis much
natural products usually show unfavorable toxicities and earlier than the results of the CANTOS study (Frishman et al.,
pharmacokinetics, limiting their clinical potential (Gerry and 2009; Orekhov et al., 2013; Al-Shehabi et al., 2016), giving a hint
Schreiber, 2018; Davison and Brimble, 2019). Overall, natural as to why American patients visited CAM providers much more
products have been the single most productive source of drug than primary care physicians (Eisenberg et al., 1998; Tachjian
leads even though little of nature's biodiversity has been tested for et al., 2010). Of relevance to this discussion is that herbal
biological activity yet (Harvey, 2000). remedies are the most common type of CAM among CVD
We therefore address and expose the general rationale for patients (Yeh et al., 2006; Tachjian et al., 2010).
using medicinal herbs in the therapy of diseases in general and Modern therapy regimens for hypertension involve
CVDs in particular. Then, we move to discuss the medicinal controlling BP elevations in hypertensive patients. This usually
potentials of four traditional herbs (Ginseng, Ginkgo biloba, requires the use of multiple antihypertensive drug agents in the
Ganoderma lucidum, and Gynostemma pentaphyllum) for the majority of these patients (Guerrero-Garcia and Rubio-Guerra,
treatment of CVDs, which are getting increasing popularity due 2018). Multiple classes of antihypertensive agents are available
to their commercial commodity in many markets worldwide and thus offering a practitioner the ability to prescribe highly effective
to their proven therapeutic potential in several settings including drug combinations in order to reduce BP and protect target
cardiovascular conditions. We describe and critically discuss organs (Stewart et al., 2019). This combination therapy is of
their therapeutic benefits in terms of molecular, cellular, and distinctive importance in resistant hypertension, which is highly
metabolic properties in the context of CVDs. In addition, we prevalent worldwide (Noubiap et al., 2019; Samaha et al., 2019).
highlight the major clinical trials in which these four herbs have The major drug classes available for the management of
been used, with an emphasis on their efficacy and safety. hypertension are thiazide diuretics, angiotensin-converting
enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor II blockers, and
calcium channel blockers (Susalit et al., 2011; Munoz-Durango
et al., 2016). Vasodilators, aldosterone antagonists, b-blockers,
MODERN MEDICINE MANAGEMENT OF a-blockers, renin inhibitors, and central-acting agents are other
ATHEROSCLEROSIS AND agents that are occasionally used (Omboni and Volpe, 2018).
HYPERTENSION These agents lower BP in patients and reduce their risk of
hypertension-related CVD events, but do not prevent them
Current health care guidelines emphasize prevention to thereby justifying the use of hypertension combination
minimize the risk of CVDs (Reiner et al., 2019). This is carried therapies (Rizvi, 2017).
out by addressing the major CVD risk factors and trying to Despite the availability of the aforementioned medications in
minimize their adverse outcomes. In atherosclerosis, most modern-day health care systems, high BP is managed in only
therapeutic approaches aim to control hypertension and 34% of the patients (August, 2004; Wang and Xiong, 2012). Such
hyperlipidemia or modulate hemostasis in order to avoid an aspect appears to be mainly related not only to the cost of
thrombotic complications (Weber and Noels, 2011). antihypertensive agents (Susalit et al., 2011), but also to their
Hypercholesterolemia is a major contributor in atherosclerosis, availability and accessibility (Wang and Xiong, 2012), their
so current conventional therapeutic approaches rely significantly unwanted side effects (Susalit et al., 2011; Wang and Xiong,
on lowering LDL levels using statins (Ridker et al., 2017; Aday 2012), and their low patient compliance with the required dose
and Ridker, 2018; Reiner et al., 2019). In cases where statin (August, 2004). For these factors hypertension patients seek
therapy does not yield a significant reduction in LDL levels, an CAM medications, especially herbal-based medicaments to
LDL-absorption inhibitor can be used, alone or in combination treat their CVDs in general and hypertension in particular
with statins depending on patient response. Clinical trials have (Yeh et al., 2006; Tachjian et al., 2010; Al Disi et al., 2016).
clearly shown that such therapies are effective in lowering CVD
risk (Reiner et al., 2019). Recently, pro-protein convertase
subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors were approved by
the regulatory bodies as a drug that can lower LDL level, and are HERBAL MEDICINE MANAGEMENT OF
recommended for use in patients with heart problems, where ATHEROSCLEROSIS AND
statins were not effective at lowering LDL levels (Ridker et al., HYPERTENSION
2017; Aday and Ridker, 2018). The CANTOS clinical trial (2017)
has provided evidence that in patients with elevated Herbal extracts and their derivatives can favorably modulate and
inflammation (hsCRP > 2 mg/L), a combination therapy of ultimately ameliorate the molecular events that contribute to
statins and canakinumab (IL-1b antibody) may be necessary to hypertension or atherosclerosis, the two major contributors to
lower atherosclerosis risk (Ridker et al., 2017; Aday and Ridker, CVDs incidence. Herbal remedies contain numerous bioactives

and, thus, have multi-modal cellular mechanisms of action. In resistance and to possess anti-obesity and hypolipidemic effects
fact, herbal remedies can have antioxidant, vasorelaxant, anti- (Mao et al., 2009).
inflammatory, anti-proliferative, or diuretic effects. Herbal Allium sativum (Garlic) is a classic example of herbs used in
remedies can also prevent VSMC phenotypic switching, inhibit CVDs management and is quite known for its multifaceted
endothelial dysfunction, platelet activation, lipid peroxidation, properties against CVD-associated conditions such as
ROS production, and macrophage atherogenicity. Because of hypertension, oxidative stress, inflammation, and
such a wide range of molecular and cellular targets, herbal hyperlipidemia (Ashraf et al., 2013; Jeong et al., 2016;
preparations can be used to treat and manage a range of Thomson et al., 2016). Indeed, by reducing total cholesterol
CVDs. For example, Salvia miltiorrhiza (Red sage), an annual and LDL levels, decreasing the content of lipid in arterial cells
sage traditionally used in Chinese medicine, has been used to and inhibiting VSMCs proliferation, garlic can be used to
treat a plethora of CVDs including CHD, myocardial infarction, manage atherosclerosis and hyperlipidemia (Sun Y. et al.,
atherosclerosis, and angina pectoris. The active compounds are 2018). Owing to its endothelial NO synthase (eNOS)-
mainly utilized as the dried root of the plant rhizome named modulated vasorelaxation ability, Crataegus oxyacantha
Danshen (Gao et al., 2012). The plant bioactive compounds are (Synonym Crataegus rhipidophylla Gand. Common name
the lipo-soluble Tanshinones and the water-soluble Phenolics Hawthorn) is another example of herbs commonly used to
(Ren et al., 2019). S. miltiorrhiza extracts have shown strong manage hypertension (Brixius et al., 2006). Another herb,
antioxidant capabilities with a high ability to scavenge free Crocus sativus (Saffron), can block Ca 2+ channels via
radicals, which seems the base of its strong cardio- and endothelium-independent mechanisms providing another
vascular-protective potential (Zhao et al., 2006). vasodilator mechanism, in addition to its eNOS activating
Salvianolic acid B, one of the pure compounds that can be ability (Razavi et al., 2016). Among other medicinal plants
extracted from S. miltiorrhiza, is effective against fibrosis and Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle), is known to reduce BP using its
ischemia–reperfusion injury (Lay et al., 2003). Danshen has a ability to inhibit ACE (Ojeda et al., 2010), while Camellia sinensis
protective effect against homocysteine-induced adverse effects, (Tea) extracts can reduce hypertension by significantly
where homocysteine imbalance is a high-risk factor for vascular increasing brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) (Ras
diseases (Chan et al., 2004). In combination with Pueraria et al., 2011). Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) exhibits
montana var. lobata. (Kudzu), Danshen has showed potent neuroprotection by acting against ischemic stroke-associated
anti-hypertensive effects (Ng et al., 2011). In one clinical trial, cerebral insufficiency, which is characterized by a reduction of
Danshen capsules (1000 mg twice daily for 12 weeks) were able localized blood flow in the brain. Through its anti-inflammatory
to significantly reduce SBP and pulse rate in patients with properties, rosemary can decrease the expression of inducible
uncontrolled mild to moderate hypertension and under NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) as well as
conventional antihypertensive treatment. It has also been that other pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators
found to be well-tolerated and considered to be safe in patients (Seyedemadi et al., 2016). The use of herbal plants extends to
with hypertension (Yang et al., 2012). include CHF and atrial arrhythmias. Digitalis, extracted from the
Astragalus membranaceus (Synonym Astragalus propinquus dried leaves of the common foxglove, is a potent inhibitor of
Schischkin. in the Missouri Botanical Garden plant list), Na+/K+-ATPase and can cause depolarization leading to smooth
another Chinese herb, contains Astragaloside IV, which is the muscle contraction and vasoconstriction and hence can
plant major bioactive compound widely used as an antioxidant strengthen muscle heart contractions (Liu et al., 2016).
and for protection against ischemic-associated CVDs (Zhang Given all these restorative abilities, it is not surprising that
et al., 2006). A. membranaceus extract has been found to herbal remedies are being absorbed into evidence-based
maintain cardiac functions by improving energy metabolism medicine for the prevention and/or treatment of CVDs. Table
and inhibiting the production of free radicals in a myocardial 1 lists common herbal remedies and the form of CVDs that they
ischemia reperfusion rat model (Zhou et al., 2000). By decreasing can help alleviate.
the levels of the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde Although herbs have been widely used in both traditional and
(MDA), maintaining superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and modern medicine, a limited number of reviews that gather them
reducing free radicals-induced myocardial cell injury, A. and comprehensively focus on their mechanisms of action and
membranaceus can also improve cardiac function and provide safety in the context of CVDs are present. Many plant-based
cardioprotection in a myocardial ischemic rat model (Ma et al., compounds appear to have cardiovascular protective effects,
2013). A. membranaceus extract also has angiogenic effects in the nevertheless, among the most effective compounds are
ischemic injury rat model (Zhang et al., 2011). Astragaloside IV flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, and polysaccharides. These
has been found to provide a positive inotropic effect improving highly effective compounds are major components of four of
left ventricular ejection in patients with congestive heart failure the most recognized herbal preparations namely: Ginseng,
(CHF) (Luo et al., 1995). The polysaccharide of A. Ginkgo biloba, Ganoderma lucidum, and Gynostemma
membranaceus has also been shown to reduce insulin pentaphyllum, which we decide to cover in this review.

TABLE 1 | Some herbal remedies traditionally used for the treatment of different Usually the roots of 5 to 7-year-old plants are either air-dried
forms of CVDs.
under the sun yielding “white ginseng” or steam-treated at 98–
CVD form Examples of herbal remedies used 100°C for 2–3 h and then sun-dried to produce the “red ginseng”
(Kim et al., 2000). During steaming, ginseng chemical
Atherosclerosis and Garlic (Allium sativum)
constituents undergo changes that make red ginseng more
hyperlipidemia Commiphora mukul
Monascus purpureus
pharmacologically effective than white ginseng (Kim et al.,
Berberine (active compound of Coptis chinensis) 2000). Currently, ginseng is prepared and used either in a
Systolic hypertension Garlic (Allium sativum) liquid form: oil extracts or tea; or in a solid form: tablets,
Rauvolfia serpentina capsules, or dried roots (Valli and Giardina, 2002). However,
Panax species (Ginseng)
extracts of ginseng root, berry, and leaf have been repeatedly
Stephania tetrandra
Veratrum species alkaloids demonstrated to have anti-obesity, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-
Ligusticum wallichii (Synonym of Ligusticum hypertensive, insulin sensitization, and anti-hyperlipidemic
striatum DC) effects (Kim, 2012).
Hawthorn from Crataegus oxyacantha More than 300 bioactives have been isolated from Ginseng.
Camelia sinensis
Ginsenosides, which are triterpene saponins, are the most bioactive
Andrographis paniculata
Apium graveolens constituents isolated from Ginseng extracts (Mahady et al., 2000).
Bidens pilosa L. Of the 40 ginsenosides isolated so far, Rb1, Rg1, Rg3, Re, and Rd are
Crocus sativus the most frequently studied. Rg3, Rg5, and RK1 are unique to the
Cymbopogon citratus red Korean Ginseng (Figure 2) (Lee and Kim, 2014). Research into
Hibiscus sabdariffa
Nigella sativa
Ginseng and its constituents has flourished so that currently there is
Urtica dioica a journal dedicated to Ginseng research: Journal of Ginseng
Viola odorata Research (https://www.journals.elsevier.com/journal-of-ginseng-
Mentha longifolia research). The study of the purified individual ginsenosides
Salvia miltiorrhiza
rather than the whole Ginseng root extract has gained recent
Uncaria Rhynchophylla
Venous insufficiency Aesculus hippocastanum
interest (Kim, 2012). Ginseng and its ginsenoside constituents
Ruscus aculeatus have vasorelaxation, anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-
Cerebral insufficiency Ginkgo biloba cancer activities (Kim, 2012; Choi J. et al., 2013).
Rosmarinus officinalis
Angina pectoris Crataegus species
Panax notoginseng Ginseng at the Bench: Mechanism of
Salvia miltiorrhiza Action in CVDs
Congestive heart failure Digitalis purpurea In the context of CVDs, Ginseng has been used to manage
Digitalis lanata
hypertension. Ginseng has hypotensive effects due to its effect in
Crataegus species
Adonis microcarpa and Adonis vernalis
the improvement of arterial functions. Interestingly,
Berberine (active compound of Coptis chinensis) ginsenosides facilitate vasorelaxation of different vessels: rat
Salvia miltiorrhiza aortas (Kim et al., 1999a), murine coronary arteries (Pan et al.,
The herbal remedies refer to the plant extract, unless otherwise indicated where the 2013), and monkey cerebral arteries (Toda et al., 2001). Ginseng
remedy may be a purified or partially purified active ingredient of the plant extract. Data can increase eNOS expression and NO production while
were obtained from published data in (Valli and Giardina, 2002; Frishman et al., 2009; Al ginsenoside Rg3 activates eNOS (Valli and Giardina, 2002;
Disi et al., 2016; Al-Shehabi et al., 2016; Samaha et al., 2019).
Jang et al., 2011; Hong et al., 2012; Pan et al., 2013; Lee K.
et al., 2016). KRG induces NO-dependent vasorelaxation
improving vascular tone. These effects are mediated by the
GINSENG inhibition of arginase activity, the increase of NO generation,
and the enhancement of eNOS dimer formation (Shin W. et al.,
Ginseng is an anciently cultivated plant (2000 years ago) partly 2013). The Panax ginseng G115 extract has also been shown to
due to its ritual use (Figure 2). Ginseng use in traditional inhibit ACE activity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells
medicine goes back to 20 centuries ago (Kim, 2012), but its use (HUVECs) and angiotensin I-induced contractions of bovine
in Western medicine dates back to the early 20th century by two mesenteric arteries (Persson et al., 2006). Other Ginseng CVDs
British physicians F. Porter Smith and G.A. Stuart who were management properties are its anti-oxidant (Lee et al., 2019a),
exploring Chinese herbal remedies at the time (Shih-Chen et al., anti-inflammatory (Keum et al., 2003; Shin Y. et al., 2013), and
1973). Ginseng habitats include Asian countries such as Korea, anti-hyperlipidemic (Park et al., 2005) effects, along with its
China, Japan, and Vietnam, and North American countries, ability to regulate Ca2+ channels (Lee and Kim, 2014).
mainly Canada and the United States. Korean red ginseng The ginsenoside Rg3 can increase NO and cGMP levels,
(KRG; Panax ginseng C.A. Mey.), Chinese ginseng (Panax activate Ca2+-gated potassium channels, inhibit ACE activity,
notoginseng Burkill; F.H.Chen.), American ginseng (Panax and block Ca2+-gated channels (Kim et al., 1999b; Persson et al.,
quinquefolium L.), and Japanese ginseng (Panax japonicas C.A. 2006; Park J. et al., 2014). Ginseng has also demonstrated an anti-
Mey.) represent the most commonly used ginsengs. inflammatory role by inhibiting the activation of activator

FIGURE 2 | Ginseng. (A) Roots have the healing properties (from https://pngtree.com/freepng). (B) Chemical structure of Ginsenosides. (C) Ginsenosides
protopanaxadiol (PPD) and Ginsenoside protopanaxatriol (PPT). R1 and R2 are side chains in different ginsenosides. Glc, glucose; Ara, arabinose; Rha, rhamnose.
protein (AP-1) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF‐kB), ultimately In Vivo Preclinical Evaluation of Ginseng in
reducing the expression of COX-2, IL‐6, IL‐1b, and tumor Animal Models of CVDs
necrosis factor‐a (TNF‐a) (Keum et al., 2003; Shin Y. et al., Ginseng's hypotensive effects have been extensively
2013). In macrophages, Baek et al. demonstrated that each demonstrated (Valli and Giardina, 2002; Lee et al., 2012;
fraction of the KRG exerts anti-inflammatory actions through Mucalo et al., 2013; Al Disi et al., 2016). For example, Ginseng
a different mechanism. For instance, the saponin fraction can reduce adrenal catecholamines secretion in hypertensive rats,
significantly suppressed NO production and reduced the thus contributing to vasorelaxation (Jang et al., 2011). However,
expression of inflammatory genes such as iNOS, COX-2, TNF- there are reports of Ginseng being hypertensive (Jang et al., 2011;
a, and interferon-b. In contrast, all extracts, including water Kim, 2012). In fact, Ginseng may have biphasic concentration-
extracts, saponin, and non-saponin fractions, inhibit the activity dependent effects. Low doses of ginseng raise BP, while higher
of the kinase TBK1 and suppress both nuclear translocation and concentrations repress BP (Jang et al., 2011), a phenomenon that
transcriptional activity of its downstream effector interferon could be due to the varied action of different Ginseng extract
regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) (Baek et al., 2016). constituents (Valli and Giardina, 2002).
By inhibiting diacylglycerol liberation, dietary supplementation of Through their antioxidant properties, ginsenosides also mediate
KRG lowers blood cholesterol levels and reduces the formation of anti-hypertensive and anti-atherosclerotic effects. Ginsenosides
atherosclerotic lesions induced by a high cholesterol diet in rabbit exhibit free radical scavenging and metal ion chelating abilities.
(Hwang et al., 2008). Again, by up-regulating the adenosine For instance, the lipid-soluble and water-soluble extracts from the
triphosphate-binding cassette transporter A1, the saponin fraction North American Ginseng exhibit strong antioxidant activity (Kitts
of P. notoginseng can attenuate cholesterol esters in foam cells (Jia et al., 2000). Lu et al. showed that Rb1 could significantly and
et al., 2010). In addition, Ginseng has shown a potent in vivo specifically alleviate hydroxyl radical and hypochlorous acid radical
antithrombotic effect, which may be due to an antiplatelet activity damaging effects (Lu et al., 2012). Aged rats, supplemented with the
rather than an anticoagulation activity, indicating that Ginseng intake North American Ginseng for four months, had decreased
may be beneficial for individuals with high risks of thrombosis and production of both ROS and age-related oxidative damage in
CVDs (Lee and Kim, 2014). In this context, the dihydro-ginsenoside proteins of the heart and muscle fibers, a phenomenon mediated
Rg3 has been reported to potently inhibit platelet aggregation through by SOD and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activation (Fu and Ji,
the modulation of downstream intracellular signals such as cAMP 2003). The ginsenoside Rg3 can ameliorate mitochondrial
and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (Lee et al., 2008). dysfunction and promote enhanced expression of antioxidant

proteins, such as the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 Ginseng, its extracts or ginsenosides on the U.S. National Library
(Nrf2) and the heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) (Lee et al., 2019a). By of Medicine www.clinicaltrials.gov reveals that there are 162
reducing hypertension- and atherosclerosis-associated Ginseng clinical trials. Of the 162 trials, 47 were Phase 3 or 4
inflammatory states, Ginseng can reduce CVD risk. To address trials, 97 have been completed and the rest are ongoing.
the anti-inflammatory effects of Ginseng, Mohammadi et al. carried Importantly, a significant number of these trials addresses
out a meta-analysis of data from randomized controlled trials. They CVDs. For example, eight trials addressed hypertension, five
report that Ginseng supplementation significantly lowered the levels addressed arterial occlusive diseases, and another five addressed
of two key pro-inflammatory mediators IL‐6 and TNF‐a strokes. One such clinical trial examined the vasorelaxation
(Mohammadi et al., 2019). By modulating angiogenesis effects of Asian Ginseng (AG) and its ability to modulate
(decreased VEGF-A and FGF-2 expression), inflammatory vascular function. Trial participants were randomized to either
(decreased CD68, TNFa, and MCP-1 expression) and matrix the selected AG extract or placebo groups and received a daily
metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, Ginseng can inhibit dose of 3 g of AG for 12 weeks in combination with their usual
ovariectomy-induced obesity, adiposity, and adipocyte hypertrophy antihypertensive and anti-diabetic therapy. Combining AG
(Lee H. et al., 2016). extract with conventional therapy in diabetics patients with
Ginseng can lower the risk of atherosclerosis by inducing a better concomitant hypertension decreased arterial stiffness and
lipid profile. Ginseng's beneficial effects on lipid metabolism have attenuated SBP (Mucalo et al., 2013). Another clinical trial
been described more than three decades ago (Qureshi et al., 1983; found that Rg3 from KRG lowers central and peripheral
Yamamoto et al., 1983). In humans and rats, red Ginseng arterial pressures in healthy adults (Jovanovski et al., 2014). In
supplementation improves lipid profiles by diminishing the total an acute, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind,
plasma levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, free fatty acids crossover trial on participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus
(FFA), and platelet adhesiveness and increasing HDL-C levels in (T2DM), Shishtar et al. showed that acute administration of
total plasma (Deng et al., 2017; Singh et al., 2017). In rats, black Korean white Ginseng appears to be safe and exhibits beneficial
Ginseng can ameliorate hypercholesterolemia by interfering with effects on the augmentations index, a cumulative indicator of
the expression of cholesterol metabolism genes (Saba et al., 2016). In arterial health (Shishtar et al., 2014a).
addition, lipid profiles tend to improve in diabetic rats receiving A 12-week intervention with KRG was conducted in patients
Ginseng, suggesting that Panax ginseng can ameliorate diabetes with impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, or
mellitus-initiated dyslipidemias (Deng et al., 2017; Abdelazim et al., newly diagnosed with T2DM. Subjects were randomized in a
2018). By modulating the secretion of lipoproteins, Ginseng can double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The trial results showed
reduce the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) (Oh that 12 weeks of intervention with KRG supplementation (5 g/
et al., 2012), which plays an essential role in lipid metabolism and day) led to normalization of whole blood and serum glucose
transport (Deng et al., 2017). levels as well as serum insulin and CRP concentrations (Bang
KRG works as an agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated et al., 2014). Administration of Panax Ginseng extract (PGE) for
receptor (PPAR), which is known to improve atherogenic 8 weeks (6 g/day) decreased serum triglycerides and total
dyslipidemia by augmenting liver PPAR-a mRNA and raising cholesterol and LDL levels, while increasing HDL levels. These
lipoprotein lipase mRNA levels (Park et al., 2005). Consistent results were attributed to PGE potent antioxidant effects (Kim
with this study, Shin et al. demonstrated that Ginseng could and Park, 2003). In accordance, the effects of a low-dose (3 g/
prevent obesity and dyslipidemia in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed day) and a high-dose (6 g/day) of KRG supplementation for 8
castrated mice. These processes were mediated through the weeks on antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress markers in
inhibition of adipogenesis-related genes expression (SREBP-1C, humans were assessed in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-
PPAR-g, FAS, SCD1, and ACC1) in visceral adipose tissues (Shin controlled trial. Increased GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT activities
and Yoon, 2018). Ginseng extracts or ginsenosides can act were found in the high-dose group as compared to the placebo
synergistically with testosterone to further inhibit dyslipidemia group. Plasma oxidized-LDL levels and DNA tail length and tail
(Shin and Yoon, 2018). Mollah et al. also showed that Ginseng moment were significantly decreased in both high and low dose
can improve lipid profiles via PPAR pathway activation (Mollah groups but increased in the placebo group. This led to the
et al., 2009; Yang and Kim, 2015). Further, ginsenoside Rg1 can conclusion that supplementation with KRG upregulates
activate the promoter of PPAR-a leading to the expression of its antioxidant enzymes activities and consequently attenuates
target genes carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT-1) and acyl- lymphocyte DNA damage (Lee et al., 2012).
CoA oxidase (ACO), which are involved in fatty acid oxidation. The efficacy of Ginseng against T2DM is well documented. A
These findings indicate that Rg1-induced improvement of lipid meta-analysis of eight clinical trials showed that administration of
profiles may be associated with increased fatty acid oxidation Ginseng, in comparison to the placebo, improves fasting glucose
through PPAR-a activation (Park et al., 2011). levels, postprandial insulin levels, and insulin resistance. In these
patients, ginseng was able to improve blood lipid profile lowering
Ginseng to the Clinic triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL levels. This meta-analysis
Numerous clinical trials have been conducted to assess the concluded that Ginseng supplementation can improve the control
cardio-protective and beneficial effects of Ginseng and its of glucose levels and insulin sensitivity in patients with T2DM (Gui
constituents in CVD treatment. Checking the clinical trials on et al., 2016). Another meta-analysis of 16 randomized clinical trials

was conducted to assess the efficacy of Ginseng in controlling Along the same lines, the mutagenic and toxicity potentials of
glycemic index by reporting the ability of Ginseng to reduce fasting tissue cultured mountain Ginseng adventitious roots
blood glucose in both patients with and without diabetes (Shishtar (TCMGARs) were tested. TCMGARs did not exhibit any
et al., 2014a; Shishtar et al., 2014b). Interestingly, when Ginseng is mutagenic properties when tested in diverse strains of
combined with conventional drugs, its efficacy in the management Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli. This was further
of hypertension is more pronounced. Indeed, combining AG extract shown in vivo without any evidence of TCMGARs mutagenicity,
with conventional therapy in diabetic patients with concomitant such as chromosomal aberration and micronucleus appearance,
hypertension decreased arterial stiffness and attenuated SBP in mice exposed to TCMGARs (Murthy et al., 2018). All these
(Mucalo et al., 2013). studies confirm the biosafety and non-toxicity of Ginseng at an
Despite the numerous clinical trials showing the efficacy of average dietary consumption.
Ginseng in CVDs management, this aspect yet remains Ginseng supplements have also shown certain clinically
controversial. In fact, some studies could not demonstrate relevant patterns of adverse cardiovascular reactions. There are
Ginseng's beneficial effects against CVD. For example, a meta- reports of numerous cases where prolonged Ginseng use or
analysis of 17 randomized clinical trials (1381 participants) found misuse has led to potential side effects related to cardiovascular
no significant effect of AG on arterial BP and hence no effect on events such as increased BP (Coon and Ernst, 2002), long QT
CVDs risk (Komishon et al., 2016). Another clinical trial concluded syndrome, or atrial fibrillation (AF) (Paik and Lee, 2015). For
that KRG intake (3 g/day) for 3 weeks had no beneficial effects on example, in a young man, 3-year Ginseng supplementation has
arterial stiffness in subjects with hypertension (Rhee et al., 2011). been found to correlate with hypertension, shortness of breath,
Yet, as mentioned above, when KRG was combined with dizziness, and inability to concentrate, symptomatology that
conventional therapy it was able to control hypertension (Rhee disappeared and did not recur after stopping the supplements.
et al., 2011). In another instance, a hypertensive female receiving no other
Thus, Ginseng appears to be efficient in regulating several medication than Ginseng (Ginzin tablets; Ferrosan) reported an
lipid profile parameters, and has shown positive effects in increase in BP rather than a decrease. Interestingly, such
patients with T2D. Also, the efficacy of Ginseng in the Ginseng-associated BP increase remitted going back to pre-
management of hypertension is well documented when treatment levels 4 days after the cessation of Ginseng intake
combined with conventional hypotensive medications. (Coon and Ernst, 2002). Although the observed effects appeared
not to be clinically relevant, in a 30-subjects prospective,
randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, Ginseng
Safety, Toxicity, and Side Effects of was found to prolong the QTc interval and reduce DSB in
Ginseng healthy adults as early as 2 h after consumption (Caron et al.,
As mentioned earlier, the claimed safety of medicinal herbs has 2002). A 43-year-old healthy woman without familial history of
to be handled cautiously, and on a case-by-case basis for each sudden cardiac death and negative test of long QT mutations
herbal preparation. The safety of Ginseng has been developed a long QT syndrome followed by polymorphic
experimentally approached using animal models and human ventricular tachycardia. The woman admitted to the hospital
clinical studies (Mahady et al., 2000). An abundant number of in revealed she was consuming 70 cL of caffeine and 4 L of Korean
vitro and in vivo studies, as well as human clinical trials have Panax ginseng daily for 6 months. Upon stopping Ginseng
pointed out that Ginseng extracts have negligible side effects consumption, the patient had no subsequent events. Yet, it is
(Park K. et al., 2014). Few unfavorable symptoms were reported not proven whether a higher dose of Ginseng or a synergistic
following long periods of administration of high doses of effect of caffeine could further prolong QT leading to malignant
Ginseng extracts. This included morning diarrhea, skin dysrhythmias (Torbey et al., 2011). Additionally, an AF with
eruption, nervousness, sleeplessness, hypertension, edema, slow ventricular rate developed after taking AG for 1-week in an
decreased appetite, depression, and hypotension (Siegel, 1979; 83-year old woman with chronic renal disease (Liao et al., 2010).
Kiefer and Pantuso, 2003). A systematic review on PGEs in Nevertheless, all these mentioned episodes are considered rare
randomized controlled trials highlighted the safety of Ginseng. adverse reactions that mostly depend on inter-variability
The review identified 40 studies where adverse effects were between patients (Paik and Lee, 2015).
reported, but analysis revealed that out of the 40 studies, 16 Ginseng has been reported to interact with several drugs, yet
studies showed no adverse events and 24 studies had 135 minor its interaction with warfarin (blood-thinning drug) is the most
events (Shergis et al., 2013). Lee et al. reported that P. ginseng documented (Yuan et al., 2004; Chua et al., 2015). A randomized,
extract (1 or 2 g/day) supplemented over the course of 4-weeks double-blind, placebo-controlled trial using 20 healthy patients
was safe, tolerable, and free of toxic effects in healthy volunteer concluded that a 2-week intake of American Ginseng (2 g/d; 1 g
subjects. Only non-significant changes were observed in twice daily) significantly reduced peak international normalized
hematological and biochemical tests (Lee et al., 2012). ratio (INR) and peak plasma warfarin levels (Yuan et al., 2004).
Recently, Song et al. performed a large-scale clinical study with In a recent study performed on rats, ginsenosides were reported
1000 participants randomly divided into two groups; a placebo to significantly enhance the activity of two enzymes known to
and a group supplemented with 2 g/d of KRG. Their findings metabolize warfarin, P450 CYP3A4 and P450 CYP2C9, restoring
asserted the safety and tolerability of KRG (Song et al., 2018). the levels of coagulation factors II and VII and that of the protein

Z, that are usually suppressed by warfarin (Dong et al., 2017). division Ginkgophyta probably due to its resistance to
The combined use of Panax ginseng with the monoamine environmental stresses (Deng et al., 2006; Cao et al., 2012).
oxidase inhibitor, phenelzine (Nardil), may result in manic-like Ginkgo biloba is one of the most sold medicinal plants. It is
symptoms (Vogler et al., 1999). Finally, although the efficacy and one of the herbs mentioned in the Chinese Materia Medica more
safety of Ginseng has been evidenced in numerous clinical than 5000 years ago, where its seeds and leaves—fresh or dried—
studies, additional well-designed, large-scale randomized have been used for thousands of years in ancient herbal
control trials are needed. medicine. Current research on its therapeutic properties
mainly uses Ginkgo biloba leaves and many pharmaceutical
companies including those in the USA and Europe
GINKGO BILOBA manufacture and sell extracts of the leaves (Kimbel, 1992;
Kleijnen and Knipschild, 1992; Kressmann et al., 2002). The
Ginkgo biloba, also known as the maidenhair tree in English due to leaves can be used for the treatment of asthma and bronchitis in
its resemblance to the foliage of the Maidenhair fern (Figure 3), the form of a tea that is most commonly used by the Chinese
is among the oldest seed plants. It is regarded as a “living fossil” people. More commonly, a standardized extract containing the
because of its continued existence without dramatic changes for most active constituents can be made from the leaves and then
270 million years. (Hori et al., 1997). Its place of origin is believed taken as a tablet, in liquid form, or given intravenously (Kleijnen
to be eastern China in Yangtze River Valley (Jaggy and Koch, and Knipschild, 1992).
1997; Singh et al., 2008). From there, it became extensively The main constituents of Gingko biloba are flavonoids
distributed in Asia, Europe, North America, and New Zealand (ginkgo-flavone glycosides), terpenoids (ginkgolides and
and is now widely cultivated (Kleijnen and Knipschild, 1992; bilobalides), biflavones, and organic acids among other
Hori et al., 1997; Belwal et al., 2019). A remark about its leaf substances (Figure 3). Ginkgolides, being unique to Gingko
extract is included in the medical Dictionary of the Republic of biloba, are not synthesized by any other living species.
China (Kimbel, 1992; Kleijnen and Knipschild, 1992; Kressmann Ginkgolides are classified into either A, B, C, J, or M types
et al., 2002). Ginkgo biloba is the only living species of the (Figure 3). Gingko biloba flavonoids include several
C D
FIGURE 3 | Ginkgo biloba. (A) Leaves of Ginkgo biloba or Maiden Hair Tree (from https://pngtree.com/freepng). (B) Chemical structure of Ginkgolides. (C) Chemical
structure of Bilobalides. (D) Structural skeleton of flavonoids. R1 and R2 are side chains.

representative glycosides, such as kaempferol, quercetin, and the inflammatory response in blood vessels by decreasing the
isorhamnetin (Figure 3). Flavonoids are known to reduce free activity of the ROS producing enzyme, nicotinamide adenine
radical generation and terpenoids are known to reduce dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX), and reducing
inflammation and protect nerve cells against neuro- the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases
inflammation (Kleijnen and Knipschild, 1992; Ude et al., 2013; (MAPKs). Subsequently, MAPKs suppress toll-like-receptor-4
Isah, 2015). Through a multistep process, Ginkgo biloba dried (TLR-4) expression in human aortic smooth muscle cells (Lin
leaves extracts are enriched for flavonoids and terpenoids and the et al., 2007). GBE can also decrease the production of the enzyme
unwanted substances are eliminated. At the final step, the liquid involved in the rupture of atherosclerotic plaques, MMP-1, in
extract is dried to give 1 part extract from 50 parts of raw drug oxidized LDL- and 4-hydroxynonenal-induced human coronary
(leaves) (Kleijnen and Knipschild, 1992; Isah, 2015). The smooth muscle cells (Akiba et al., 2007). In the same model, the
composition of Gingko biloba extracts may differ depending on GBE constituent, Ginkgolide B, attenuated endothelial
the manufacturing process. Standardized extract forms have dysfunction by inhibiting monocyte chemotactic protein‐1
been developed and usually contain 24–36% flavone glycosides (MCP‐1), intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), and
and 4–11% terpenoids. For example, standardized extract vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1) production in
EGb761 is the most commonly used Ginkgo biloba extract oxidized‐LDL‐induced HUVECs. Additionally, Ginkgolide B
(GBE), and it contains 24% ginkgo flavonoid glycosides, 6% treatment reduced the expression of several inflammatory
terpene lactones, and 5–10% organic acids (Kressmann et al., cytokines in oxidized‐LDL‐induced mouse RAW264.7
2002; Chan et al., 2007). These extracts have been used for macrophages (Feng et al., 2018). Ginkgolide C, another GBE
various therapeutic purposes, including regulation of cerebral constituent, can reduce adipogenesis and enhance lipolysis
blood flow (Mashayekh et al., 2011), protection against free leading to suppression of lipid accumulation. Ginkgolide C
radicals (Oyama et al., 1996; Bridi et al., 2001), tinnitus treatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes decreased the expression of
treatment (Mahmoudian-Sani et al., 2017), protection of PPAR adipogenesis-related transcription factors. Ginkgolide C
neurons (Mahdy et al., 2011), as well as enhancement of also enhanced the Sirt1/AMPK pathway resulting in decreased
cognitive functions, such as memory and concentration activity of acetyl-CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthesis.
problems (Weinmann et al., 2010; Tan et al., 2015). Moreover, Ginkgolide C stimulated the production of adipose
triglyceride lipase and hormone-sensitive lipase, leading to
Ginkgo biloba at the Bench: Mechanism of elevated lipolysis levels (Liou et al., 2015). Similar results were
Action in CVDs obtained with human HepG2 hepatocyte cell line (Huang
Ginkgo biloba's therapeutic effects and pharmacological actions et al., 2018).
are majorly due to its constituent flavonoids (ginkgo-flavone
glycosides) and terpenoids (ginkgolides and bilobalide) (Lacour In Vivo Preclinical Evaluation of
et al., 1991). These Ginkgo biloba constituents are well known for Ginkgo biloba
their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo biloba has several cardioprotective effects, including
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects are beneficial in a improvement of atherosclerosis due to their ability to block
plethora of diseases that include cardiovascular, pulmonary, platelet-activating factor and platelet aggregation in rats (Zeng
and central nervous systems. et al., 2013; Huang et al., 2014).
Free radical generation contributes to the development and eNOS is responsible for most of the vascular NO production,
progression of numerous CVDs, including vascular injuries and and NO acts as a protective molecule to maintain vasculature
atherosclerotic plaque formation. During CVD pathogenesis, the hemostasis and protection of the vascular endothelium
equilibrium between free radical generation and antioxidant (Forstermann and Munzel, 2006). eNOS production and activity
defense is greatly shifted toward the former (Singh and Niaz, are impaired in several CVDs, including hypertension (Chou et al.,
1996; Witztum and Berliner, 1998; Fulton and Barman, 2016). 1998), cardiac hypertrophy (Ozaki et al., 2002), myocardial
GBE greatly restores the disturbed oxidative state equilibrium infarction (Tsutsui et al., 2008), and heart failure (Couto et al.,
due to their antioxidant action, which helps to scavenge excessive 2015). GBE can act as an antihypertrophic agent by the activation of
free radicals as well as reduce free radical generation. the M2 muscarinic receptors/NO pathway and of cholinergic
In addition, vasodilatory and antihypertensive properties of signaling during cardiac hypertrophy. In a rat model of chronic
GBE can exert cardioprotective benefits (Perez-Vizcaino et al., b-adrenergic stimulation-induced cardiac hypertrophy, GBE was
2009). In this regard, GBE has exhibited ACE inhibitory activities able to ameliorate the deleterious cardiac events associated with
(Mansour et al., 2011), activation of cholinergic pathways, cardiac hypertrophy. These effects were mediated by the
endothelial health improvement, inhibition of endothelium upregulation of M2 receptors and the downregulation of b1-
activation and adhesion (Mesquita et al., 2017), and serum adrenergic receptors. GBE also restored eNOS activity and
lipid-lowering activities (Liou et al., 2015; Huang et al., 2018) consequently elevated NO levels (Mesquita et al., 2017). In
among other reported effects that are beneficial in CVD. addition, the anti-hypertensive effects of EGb761 supplementation
By acting as an anti-atherothrombotic and anti-inflammatory were documented in hypertensive rats where SBP, DBP, and arterial
agent, GBE can limit LPS-induced proliferation of VSMCs and BP were reduced. EGb761 supplementation also decreased
their morphological alterations. Furthermore, GBE can regulate inflammation and oxidative stress. While eNOS protein

expression levels were enhanced, protein levels of iNOS were 2005). Rats with an ischemic myocardium and pre-treated with
decreased (Abdel-Zaher et al., 2018). GBE50, an extract that matches EGb761, exhibited decreased
Vascular aging is commonly accompanied with low-grade intracellular calcium overload which could block arrhythmia.
inflammation and degenerative structural changes and stiffness of GBE could decrease the calcium overload and protect from an
blood vessels and is considered a risk factor for the development of ischemic myocardium by inhibiting the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (Liu
CVDs, such as CHD and hypertension (Franceschi et al., 2000; et al., 2013).
Lakatta and Levy, 2003). In the mesenteric arterioles of old rats,
GBE had a protective effect that alleviated arterial stiffness and Ginkgo biloba to the Clinic
improved endothelial health (Cuong et al., 2019). In these aged Given the above reported protective and therapeutic benefits of
mesenteric arterioles, GBE improved vascular elasticity by GBE in vitro and in vivo, several clinical trials have been
narrowing the EC gap, increasing curvature of inner elastic conducted to test different formulations and doses of GBE in a
membrane and reducing the middle collagen fiber layer. These plethora of diseases (DeKosky et al., 2008; Gardner et al., 2008;
changes were accompanied by decreased phosphorylation levels of Kuller et al., 2010; Hashiguchi et al., 2015). A search of
Akt/FoxO3a signaling components, which usually contributes to clinicaltrials.gov shows that there have been 88 reported
vascular dysfunction (Cuong et al., 2019). clinical trials using various formulation of GBE. Of the 88
Pre-treatment with EGb761 in rats that have undergone trials, 66 have been concluded, and there are 30 Phase 3 or 4
myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury inhibited the apoptosis of trials. Most of these trials dealt with neural and cognitive
myocardial cells, decreased the expression of caspase 3 and pro- disorders, where GBE has been shown to have clinical promise.
apoptotic Bax and increased that of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, and For GBE beneficial effects in CVDs, 7 out of the 88 trials were
protected the myocardium by activating the endogenous Akt/Nrf2 concerned with vascular diseases, 4 with stroke, 4 with
antioxidant stress pathway. Akt/Nrf2 activation subsequently arteriosclerosis, 2 with coronary disease, 1 with hypertension,
decreased oxidative stress leading to reduced lipid peroxidation and 1 with atherosclerosis.
and increased activities of the endogenous anti-oxidant defense GBE has vasorelaxation effects in human subjects. GBE was
enzymes, namely SOD, and GSH-Px. In addition, EGb761 pre- able to dilate forearm blood vessels causing changes in regional
treatment increased the expression of the heat shock protein heme blood flow without affecting BP levels in 16 healthy subjects
oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and repressed the expression of mediators of (Mehlsen et al., 2002). A small trial performed in normal
the inflammatory response, such as TNF-a, IL-6, and IL-1b (Chen glucose-tolerant subjects to determine the effects of GBE on
et al., 2019). HO-1 degrades heme (a potent oxidant) to generate glucose-stimulated pancreatic beta-cell function found that the
carbon monoxide, which has anti-inflammatory properties, ingestion of GBE for three months can decrease SBP and DBP. In
bilirubin, which is an antioxidant derived from biliverdin, and these individuals, fasting plasma insulin and CRP were increased
iron (He et al., 2014). Similar Ginkgo biloba anti-oxidant (Kudolo, 2000). A double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel
properties have been reported in diabetic rats as well. design trial was performed in patients with peripheral artery
Administration of GBE for 30 days can increase SOD, CAT, and disease aimed to assess the effects of the supplementation of 300
GSH-Px activity along with glutathione (GSH) levels in the liver and mg/day of EGb761 to treadmill walking time and cardiovascular
pancreas of diabetic rats (Cheng et al., 2013). This enhanced anti- measures. In older adult patients, EGb761 produced a modest
oxidant status might be responsible for improved glucose uptake via non-significant increase in maximal treadmill walking time and
increased GLUT-4 expression (Shi et al., 2010). Furthermore, flow-mediated vasodilation. The authors suggested that a longer
EGb761 oral supplementation of HFD-fed mice can dose- duration might be needed to observe significant beneficial effects
dependently enhance glucose tolerance, decrease insulin levels, (Gardner et al., 2008).
and diminish parameters of insulin resistance (Cong et al., 2011). Kuller el al. used the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory Study
The above reports point that GBE has a pleiotropic mechanism (GEM) to assess CVD as a secondary outcome. The GEM study
of action. Indeed, a metabolomic profiling study of the plasma and was a double-blind trial that randomized 3069 participants
hearts of GBE-supplemented rats with myocardial infarction whose ages were over 75 years to 120 mg of EGb761 twice
established that GBE acts via the regulation of multiple metabolic daily (240 mg/day) or placebo. Data indicated that EGb761 did
pathways. Metabolomic profiles of rats with MI showed disturbed not affect the originally assessed primary outcome—the
metabolism in these rats because of modulated inflammatory development of dementia or Alzheimer's disease (DeKosky
reaction, oxidative stress, and structurally damaged pathways. et al., 2008). Also, there were no differences in the incidence of
However, GBE supplementation controlled the inflammatory myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, or stroke between the
reaction and oxidative stress pathways by regulating sphingolipid, GBE and placebo groups. After 6 years of monitoring, the study
phospholipid and glyceride metabolism and ameliorated the concluded that GBE does not reduce total CVD mortality or
structural damage by downregulating amino acid metabolism CVD events (Kuller et al., 2010).
(downregulation of urea cycle) and decreasing oxidative stress Several clinical trials to assess the protective effects of GBE in
(Wang et al., 2016). CVDs are still ongoing. A 12-weeks randomized, double-blind,
In addition to the above-mentioned effects, GBE was able to phase 3 clinical trial aimed to further evaluate the safety and efficacy
decrease calcium overload (Liu et al., 2013), the primary factor of Rinexin® (Cilostazol 100mg, Ginkgo biloba leaf extract 80mg)
responsible for the irreversible myocardial injury (Moens et al., which is widely used as an anti-platelet agent for the treatment of

peripheral artery disease (NCT03318276; clinicaltrials.gov). Most and/or anticoagulant medications (Matthews, 1998). Therefore,
recently, efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba pills for CHD patients it is recommendable to stop GBE intake at least 2 weeks before
with impaired glucose regulation will be assessed in a Phase 4 surgical procedures. Always because of its anti-platelet
randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial properties, it has been suggested that GBEs (including seeds
(NCT03483779; clinicaltrials.gov). Twelve patients will be and leaves) should be used with caution during pregnancy,
recruited for a test period of 58 weeks. Pills of five different GBEs particularly around labor, and during lactation (Dugoua et al.,
will be to administered three times a day (Sun M. et al., 2018). 2006). Several case reports described cardiac adverse events
The therapeutic effect GBE appears to be more evident in associated with Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts. For example, 2
combination with modern medicine. The analysis of 23 weeks GBE intake (40 mg, three times daily) has been reported
randomized clinical trials (involving 2,529 patients) showed to develop ventricular arrhythmia in a 49-year-old subject with
that when combined with routine Western medicine, GBE was good health (Cianfrocca et al., 2002), a symptom resolved upon
more effective at the relief of angina pectoris as compared to the the discontinuation of GBE supplementation (Cianfrocca
routine medicine alone (Sun et al., 2015). In addition, due to its et al., 2002).
platelet aggregation inhibitory effects, the combination of GBE A randomized placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot study of
and modern medicine was reported to posses beneficial effects GBE reported more ischemic stroke and transient ischemic
against acute cerebral ischemia. In that study, platelet attack cases in the GBE group as compared with the placebo.
aggregation was found to be significantly lower in patients The study lasted 42-month 118 cognitively intact subjects
treated with ticlopidine and EGb 761 as compared with randomized to standardized GBE or placebo and its aim was
patients treated with ticlopidine alone (Hong et al., 2013). to measure the effect of GBE on cognitive decline (Dodge et al.,
Combination of EGb 761 also had increased therapeutic effect 2008). Another case report, attributed the frequent nocturnal
in patients with uncontrolled diabetes. Indeed, a randomized palpitations reported by a 35-year old woman taking GBE
controlled trial showed that the combination of EGb 761 with supplementation to GBE (Russo et al., 2011). In addition to
metformin is more effective than metformin alone in improving clinical trials, Ginkgo biloba safety has also been assessed in vivo
the outcomes of patients with uncontrolled T2DM (Aziz in rats. Dietary intake of GBE (0.5% extract) for 4 weeks has been
et al., 2018). reported to significantly reduce heart rate and blood flow velocity
The GBE therapeutic potential in managing CVDs has not in tail arteries of old spontaneously hypertensive (SH) rats as
been always clinically observed. Using data obtained from the compared to the control group (Tada et al., 2008). Thus, in the
GEM study database, Brinkley et al. concluded that GBE does not elderly population with hypertension, the use of GBE may need
reduce BP or the incidence of hypertension in older men and to be assessed for effects on heart rate (Mei et al., 2017).
women (Brinkley et al., 2010). In accordance, another study Furthermore, some of the components (ginkgolic acids) of
reporting the analysis of 9 randomized clinical trials (1012 EGb761 have been reported to elicit severe allergic reactions.
hypertensive patients) concluded that more rigorous trials are However, this allergic reaction is not present as long as the
needed to draw a conclusion on the efficacy of GBE in managing carboxylic acid group of ginkgolic acids is intact (Chan et al.,
hypertension (Xiong et al., 2014). 2007). Yet, contact with Ginkgo biloba plants is associated with
Based on these and other studies, the efficacy of GBE, despite severe allergic reactions, including erythema and edema (Chiu
being reported in many studies, is best documented and observed et al., 2002)
when combined with other known medications for the Food poisoning by Ginkgo biloba seeds has been reported in
management of CVDs. Japan and China, where the main symptoms were convulsion,
vomiting, and loss of consciousness. The poisoning is primarily
Safety, Toxicity, and Side Effects of due to the neurotoxic compound 4′-O-methylpyridoxine (MPN,
G. biloba also known as ginkgotoxin) which interferes with pyridoxine
Taken orally at the typical dosage, GBE may cause mild adverse (vitamin B 6 ) metabolism, leading to serious neurological
effects, principal among which are mild gastrointestinal upset, manifestations including neurotoxicity, seizures, and loss of
headache, dizziness, constipation, and allergic skin reactions. consciousness (Wada et al., 1988; Wada, 2005). Ginkgotoxin is
Higher dosages, however, can result in restlessness, diarrhea, found in the ginkgo leaf at very low amounts. However, GBE is
nausea, vomiting, and weakness (Diamond and Bailey, 2013). unlikely to contain this toxic component as ginkgotoxin is
Noticeably, the therapeutic employment of this herb is also standardized to be too low in the extract (Arenz et al., 1996).
linked to adverse cardiovascular events. Fifteen published case Several reports have described that GBE induces cytochrome
reports described a temporal association between GBE intake P450 (CYP) in humans, shedding light on potential interactions
and serious bleeding events, including intracranial bleeding between GBE and conventional drugs. Ginkgo biloba is known to
(Bent et al., 2005), an effect that may be attributed to the decrease the plasma concentrations of omeprazole, ritonavir, and
platelet-activating factor antagonism exerted by ginkgolides, tolbutamide. It can interact with antiepileptics, acetylsalicylic
bilobalides, and other constituents present in the extract (Izzo acid, diuretics, ibuprofen, risperidone, rofecoxib, trazodone, and
and Ernst, 2009). These major bleeding events, including warfarin (Izzo and Ernst, 2009).
subarachnoid and intracranial hemorrhage, have been mostly Considering that GBE is widely used in a plethora of diseases
described during the concomitant use of gingko and antiplatelet combined with the paucity of data from animal studies regarding

GBE toxicity and carcinogenicity, the National Institutes of designed clinical trials that assess the safety and efficacy of GBE
Health (NIH) has performed a 2-year and 3-month toxicity are much needed.
and carcinogenicity study of GBE in B6C3F1/N mice and F344/N
rats using different doses of GBE. The GBE used contained 24% GANODERMA LUCIDUM
flavonol glycosides and 6% terpene lactones, along with no more
than five ppm ginkgolic acids. The study was performed by NIH Ganoderma lucidum, also known as “lingzhi” or “reishi,” is a
National Toxicology Program (NTP) and concluded that GBE mushroom (Figure 4) whose different parts (mycelia, spores, and
might elicit toxic and cancer-related consequences in rodents. fruit body) are used to make different forms of commercial G.
The carcinogenic effects reported were stomach ulcers, organ Lucidum for their medicinal benefits. Commercially, G. Lucidum
modification including carcinogenic activity in the liver, liver and is available as powders, dietary supplements, tea, among other
thyroid gland hypertrophy, liver hyperplasia, and hyperkeratosis forms. Historically, G. Lucidum medicinal use has been wide
(National Toxicology Program, 2013; Rider et al., 2014). These spread in Asian countries (mainly in China, Japan, and Korea)
reports raised concerns about the safety of GBE. Following the for more than 2000 years. Later, it was introduced to Western
NTP report, the International Agency for Research on Cancer societies (Ahmad, 2018). Hot water or ethanol can be used to
(IARC) reported in 2014 that there is inadequate evidence in extract the bioactive compounds from the fruiting bodies, the
humans for the carcinogenicity of GBE (Grosse et al., 2013). mycelia, or the spores of the mushroom (Heleno et al., 2012). A
Following this report, clinical and genomic safety of IDN 5933/ wide array of bioactive compounds exist in G. Lucidum that
Ginkgoselect®Plus, a standardized GBE, was assessed in elderly include triterpenes (Figure 4), polysaccharides, nucleosides,
subjects using a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. The steroids, fatty acids, alkaloids, proteins, peptides, amino acids,
treatment group was given 120-mg IDN 5933 twice-daily for 6 and inorganic elements (Ahmad, 2018).
months. No adverse clinical effects or increase of liver injury Immunomodulation, anti-oxidation, liver protection, anti-
markers were reported in the treatment group. Genomic testing proliferation, and anti-angiogenesis are among the various
revealed that there is no difference in micronucleus frequency or properties that Ganoderma lucidum bioactive compounds
DNA breaks between the treated and placebo groups. The possess individually or synergistically (Sanodiya et al., 2009).
expression of genes known to be modulated in early The triterpenoids have hepatoprotective, anti-hypertensive,
carcinogenesis (c-myb, p53, and ctnnb1 [b-catenin]) was not hypo-cholesterolemic, anti-histaminic, anti-tumor, and anti-
significantly different between groups at the beginning or the end angiogenic effects. In addition, Ganoderma lucidum triterpenoids
of the study (Bonassi et al., 2018). Taken together these results have anti-platelet aggregation and complement inhibition effects.
support the safety of IDN 5933 at the used doses for a duration of It should be noted that G. Lucidum is the only source of triterpene
6 months. Overall, there is still controversy about the safety of fatty acids called ganoderic acids. Of the 200 bioactive compounds
GBE for long-term use in human subjects and additional well- that have been identified in Ganoderma lucidum extracts,
FIGURE 4 | Ganoderma lucidum. (A) Ganoderma lucidum (from https://pngtree.com/freepng). (B) Examples of the chemical structure of two Triterpenes from
Ganoderma lucidum.

ganoderic acids A, B, and C have hypoglycemic effects (Hikino following treatment with spore oil extracted from G. Lucidum
et al., 1985; Tomoda et al., 1986), while ganoderic acids F, B, D, H, (Xie et al., 2016).
K, S, and Y most likely have hypotensive effects (Morigiwa et al., More research needs to be conducted on the possible
1986). Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (b-d-glucans) harbor mechanisms and signaling pathways that G. Lucidum bioactive
anti-tumor properties due to their immunomodulation and anti- derivatives employ to elicit their beneficial effects in order to get a
angiogenesis effects. They also exhibit anti-oxidant protective more comprehensive sense of how these substances work.
effects against free radicals and can decrease mutagen induced
cell damage (Boh et al., 2007). Ganoderma lucidum b-d-Glucan
polysaccharides were also identified as the active component in the In Vivo Preclinical Evaluation of G. lucidum
polysaccharide peptide (PsP) usually found in Ganoderma To study the cardioprotective effects of G. lucidum extract, global
lucidum extracts. There is no agreed dosage for G. lucidum, ischemia and reperfusion of isolated and perfused rat hearts were
however, commonly used doses vary between 1.5 and 9 g of used. As a preventative treatment, 400 mg/kg body weight of G.
dried extract per day (Klupp et al., 2016). lucidum extract was delivered to rats for 15 days. It was found that
this treatment halted the necrotic death of the rat cardiomyocytes
and reduced the reperfusion contracture (Lasukova et al., 2015).
Interestingly, G. lucidum extract supplementation attenuated
G. lucidum at the Bench: Mechanism of diastolic dysfunction and prevented irreversible cardiomyocyte
Action in CVDs damage (Lasukova et al., 2008).
As stated earlier, antioxidants are very important when it comes to Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that has been
the prevention of atherosclerosis. G. lucidum can act as an correlated with a high incidence of CVDs, partly because high
antioxidant; in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, G. blood glucose levels can cause vascular damage (Klein et al.,
lucidum protected C. elegans against paraquat and heavy metal- 2002; Fox et al., 2008; Shah et al., 2008). Thus, a supplement that
induced oxidative stress via the diet restriction pathway and the can help manage diabetes would be of great benefit to decrease
mTOR/S6K signaling pathway, respectively (Cuong et al., 2019). G. CVD risk. Thirty-five Wistar rats were supplemented with 50,
lucidum has been found to protect human lymphocyte DNA from 150, and 300 mg/kg of PsP from G. lucidum extracts. PsP
hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative damage (Shi et al., 2002). It induced endothelial repair process with 300 mg/kg being the
was also found that G. lucidum regulates the expression of Nrf2 most efficient dose. The findings showed that vascular damage
which in turn regulates antioxidants genes such as HO-1, GST, was improved by PsP treatment in a rat model of T2DM
NQO-1; G. lucidum ethanol extract enhanced the phosphorylation (Heriansyah et al., 2019).
of Nrf2 which upregulated HO-1 in C2C12 myoblasts (Lee Y. et al., A diet high in fats is known to be a contributing risk factor to
2016). Thus, the antioxidant power in G. lucidum, which is the development of CVDs (Fleming, 2002) and weight loss is an
important for the prevention of atherosclerosis, can act on essential measure for the prevention of CVDs in obese people
different signaling pathways. (Sowers, 2003). The water extract of G. lucidum can reduce the
Elevated BP can be detrimental to heart function. Three peptides body weight, inflammation, and insulin resistance in HFD-fed
(QLVP, QDVL, and QLDL), that can inhibit ACE activity and mice (Chang et al., 2015). In another study, G. lucidum spores
called ACE inhibitory peptides (ACEIPs), were extracted from G. (GLSP) at a dose of 1 g/day supplemented orally for 4 weeks were
lucidum and can be used to treat hypertension. QLVP can inhibit used in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. GLSP decreased total
ACE by its interaction with Gln242 and Lys472 of ACE. QLVP also cholesterol and triglycerides in diabetic rats as well as attenuated
enhanced Angiotensin 1-mediated phosphorylation of eNOS and the levels of oxidative stress; it is worth noting that there was an
reduced mRNA and protein expression of the vasoconstrictor upregulation of genes related to lipid metabolism—acyl-CoA
peptide endothelin-1 in HUVECs (Wu et al., 2019). oxidase 1 (ACOX1), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), and Insig-1/
Selenium-enriched G. lucidum polysaccharide (Se-GLP) extracts 2 gene expression. ACOX1 was activated more than 5-folds in
have protective effects against oxidative damage in a mouse model the GLSP-treated diabetic rats which indicates an accelerated
of heart reperfusion injury. Se-GLP significantly reduced the beta-oxidation of lipids in these rats (Wang et al., 2015).
ischemic reperfusion injury-induced serum levels of MDA as well Dyslipidemia is one of the major risk factors for CVDs
as the levels of the proinflammatory molecule intercellular adhesion (Miller, 2009). In experimental animal studies, G. lucidum
molecule-1. Heart and serum levels of the antioxidant enzymes showed anti-hyperlipidemic effects by lowering plasma total
SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px and the levels of GSH as well as total cholesterol, LDL, and triglyceride levels (Chen et al., 2005).
antioxidant capacity were rescued by Se-GLP (Shi et al., 2010). In Hydrogen peroxide free radicals are usually elevated during
another study, the protective effects of Ganoderic acid A, from G. dyslipidemia, and thus the risk of atherosclerosis, so
lucidum extracts, was found to activate the PI3K/AKT signaling antioxidants are needed to prevent blood vessels damage. A
pathway causing increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis of study conducted in high cholesterol diet-supplemented Wistar
rat H9c2 cardiomyocytes exposed to hypoxic injury, a phenomenon rats that received 50, 150, and 300 mg/kg bodyweight of PsP
mediated by the activation of miR-182-5p and reduction of PTEN derived from G. Lucidum found that PsP acted as a potent
expression (Zhang et al., 2018). Similarly, a preclinical study using antioxidant. In addition, PsP may prevent the atherogenesis
transverse aortic constriction mice as a model of pressure overload- process in the context of dyslipidemia with the optimum dose
caused cardiomyopathy reported improved cardiac function being 300 mg/kg bodyweight (Wihastuti and Heriansyah, 2017).

Another study found that polysaccharides extracted from G. A randomized clinical trial was conducted on the use of G.
Lucidum significantly reduced the body-weight increases of mice lucidum for the treatment of cardiovascular risk factors of the
fed an HFD suggesting its role as a hypolipidemic substance. In metabolic syndrome. It was reported that using G. lucidum (3 g/
addition, it exhibited antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects in the d) for 16 weeks had no effect on glycosylated hemoglobin
HFD-fed mice (Liang et al., 2018). (HbA1c) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG). Further,
With regard to regulation of high BP, a study conducted on consumption of G. lucidum was associated with the increased
adult male hypertensive rats that received G. lucidum water risk of a subset of mild events including headache, fatigue, and
extracts intra-gastrically for seven weeks found that the gastrointestinal events (Klupp et al., 2016).
experimental rats BP was reduced to a level comparable to that None of the human studies reported above had any serious side
of rats on losartan (angiotensin II receptor antagonist) (Shevelev effects thus highlighting G. lucidum as a potential therapeutic and
et al., 2018) preventative substance in the context of certain CVDs.
In a study examining 37 patients with high risk for
G. lucidum to the Clinic atherosclerosis and on an ongoing conventional CVD medication,
Antioxidants are potentially therapeutic substances that can be G. lucidum PsP was able to reduce the levels hs-CRP, IL-6, and
used to prevent atherosclerosis as well as a variety of other TNF-a, as well as the levels of MDA (Widya et al., 2016). Another
diseases. Several in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies have study involving 34 stable angina pectoris patients showed that
shown that G. lucidum constituents possess antioxidant administration of PsP in combination with previous medication is
activities, but evidence for such activities in human subjects was able to significantly reduce CECs and EPCs (markers for endothelial
lacking. Watchtel Galor et al. performed a follow-up study on the vascular injury) as well as the levels of total cholesterol (Ubaidillah
effects of G. lucidum supplementation on an array of parameters et al., 2016).
that included antioxidant biomarkers status and CHD risk. A The efficacy of G. lucidum in CVDs was tested in a prospective,
double-blinded, crossover, placebo-controlled intervention study double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Eighty-four volunteers with
of 18 healthy people was conducted. There was an enhancement of T2DM and metabolic syndrome were supplemented with extracts
plasma total antioxidant markers status as well as an improvement of G. lucidum, G. lucidum with Cordyceps sinensis, or placebo in
of CHD biomarkers after 10 days of supplementation. More order to manage cardiovascular risk factors. Results from the study
importantly, there was no renal, liver, or DNA toxicity evidenced that G. lucidum failed to provide benefit against CVDs in
(Wachtel-Galor et al., 2004). To test G. Lucidum antioxidant patients with the metabolic syndrome (Klupp et al., 2016). Likewise,
potential, a crossover human intervention study was conducted the analysis of five trials (398 total volunteers), concluded that G
on seven healthy people, and it was found that the plasma total lucidum was not effective in treating elevated BP (Klupp et al., 2015).
antioxidant power was enhanced after the administration of a Taken together, these data suggest that G. lucidum is most
single dose of G. Lucidum extract. Lymphocytes harvested effective in providing cardiovascular protection when combined
following blood collection, however, showed no signs of with conventional CVDs medications.
enhanced DNA repair (Wachtel-Galor et al., 2010). G. lucidum
PsP was also examined for its antioxidant properties. A clinical Safety, Toxicity, and Side Effects of
trial was conducted with 37 high risk and 34 stable angina patients G. lucidum
that were given PsP 750 mg/day for 90 days. PsP proved to be a Numerous conducted studies and investigations pointed toward
potent antioxidant in the context of atherosclerosis in both the the safety of G. Lucidum. In both male and female rodents, G.
high angina risk and stable groups. PsP supplemented groups lucidum shows no signs of toxicity even at a dose of up to 5000
showed increased SOD, decreased MDA levels, and reduced mg/kg of body weight. No animal mortality was reported either
counts of circulating endothelial cells (CEC) and endothelial (Smina et al., 2011). When compared to doxorubicin (a typical
progenitor cells (EPC) (Sargowo et al., 2018). DNA intercalating agent used in chemotherapy), G. lucidum
A double-blind, randomized, multicentered study was done extracts were shown to act indirectly on DNA, thus adding more
to evaluate the effects and safety of G. lucidum polysaccharides assurance to its safety (Gurovic et al., 2018).
on patients with CHD. Eighty-eight patients that constituted the Hemostatic parameters, platelet and global hemostatic
experimental group were given G. lucidum polysaccharides for functions, were not affected when a dose of 1.5 g/d of G.
12 weeks. The polysaccharides significantly enhanced the lucidum extract was given to healthy human volunteers for 4
wellbeing of the patients evidenced as an improvement of their weeks. In addition, the use of G. lucidum did not cause bleeding
major symptoms (chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations), problems in the healthy subjects (Kwok et al., 2005). However, in
and a decrease in BP and serum cholesterol levels (Gao et al., another study, Tao and Feng volunteered 15 healthy subjects and
2004). Another study found that PsP from G. lucidum had anti- 33 atherosclerotic patients and found that any dose above 3000
inflammatory effects and vascular EC protection in patients with mg/day can inhibit platelet aggregation. As a result, caution is
ST-elevation myocardial infarction and non-ST-elevation advised when supplementing G. lucidum to patients with low
myocardial infarction with risk factors of dyslipidemia platelet count or patients that will undergo surgical procedures
(Sargowo et al., 2019). (Tao and Feng, 1990).

Safety of polysaccharides extracted from the fruiting body of 2012; Park S. et al., 2014). It has been used to treat hepatitis
G. lucidum was evaluated in Wistar rats and the results indicated and hypertension (Lin et al., 2000). Among the various bioactive
no evidence of abnormal clinical symptoms, death or significant compounds, dammarane-type triterpene saponins (gypenosides
differences in body weight and food intake. No significant or gynosaponins) are major (Kim and Han, 2011).
differences were found in the hematology value, clinical
chemistry value and organ/body weight ratio. Additionally, no G. pentaphyllum at the Bench: Mechanism
mutagenicity was detected in Kunming mice (Zhang et al., 2016). of Action in CVDs
However, high doses of G. lucidum polysaccharides As already mentioned, antioxidants are important when it comes to
modulated immune responses. The polysaccharides enhanced the prevention of atherosclerosis. Four flavonoids—namely
the primary immune response to sheep red blood cells but did quercetin-3-O-(2″,6″-di-a-L-rhamnosyl)-b-D-galactopyranoside,
not have significant effects on the phagocytic function or quercetin-3-O-(2″,6″-di-a-L-rhamnosyl)-b-D-glucopyranoside,
macrophages (Zhang et al., 2016). The G. lucidum quercetin-3-O-(2″-a-L-rhamnosyl)-b-D-galactopyranoside, and
polysaccharides-modulated immune responses were tested in quercetin-3-O-(2″-a-L-rhamnosyl)-b-D-glucopyranoside—with
another study where 16 participants supplemented with 2 g of potent antioxidant effects against DPPH and OH free radicals, in
G. lucidum extract twice daily took part in a 10-day controlled vitro, were found in the extracts of G. pentaphyllum. These
trial. In this study, there were no differences in CD4, CD8, and flavonoids also exhibited cytoprotection against AAPH-induced
CD19 levels in the blood, though CD56 did increase, without oxidative damage in pig kidney LLC-PK1 cells by suppressing the
achieving statistical significance, but it returned to baseline levels increase of MDA, and limiting the decrease of SOD and GSH (Lin
10 days after intake of the extract (Wicks et al., 2007). et al., 2019). In another study, flavonoids from G. pentaphyllum
A 12-week trial performed on 23 dyslipidemic and mild were extracted and tested on human lung carcinoma A549 cells. It
hypertensive volunteers revealed that Lingzhi (1.44 g/day) had was found that the flavonoids protected A549 cells against hydrogen
no effect on several clinical chemistry parameters as compared peroxide-induced oxidative damage by increasing the expression
with the placebo. However, symptoms such as headache, levels members of the endogenous antioxidant system including
influenza/running nose were found, although considered not SOD, GSH, Nrf2, NQO1, and HO-1 (Wang et al., 2018). Another
clinically significant (Chu et al., 2012). study evaluated the antioxidant potential of one G. pentaphyllum
Whether these changes that are induced by G. lucidum have component, the phytoestrogen gypenoside XVII, it was found that
any clinical value remains to be addressed in future clinical trials the phytoestrogen alleviated atherosclerosis via the ERa-mediated
especially after long-term administration of escalating doses of G. PI3K/Akt pathway (Yang et al., 2017). A prior study evaluated the
lucidum extracts to assess long-term safety. Further studies are effects of gypenosides of G. pentaphyllum on hydrogen peroxide-
still needed to examine the toxicity, side effects, and safety of G. induced oxidative damage in bovine pulmonary artery ECs. The
lucidum for human consumption. gypenosides protected the ECs from oxidative injury further
suggesting its potent antioxidant activity as well as its prospective
use as a preventative supplement against atherosclerosis (Li and
GYNOSTEMMA PENTAPHYLLUM Lau, 1993).
Inflammation can contribute to the onset of atherosclerosis and
Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Figure 5), also known as Jiaogulan, other CVD risk factors, hence, reducing inflammation can act as a
is a herbaceous climbing vine. Originating in south China and protective factor in CVDs. The gypenoside XLIX (Gyp-XLIX) from
now widely distributed in South and East Asia (Li et al., 2016), it G. pentaphyllum has been studied for its anti-inflammatory
is found in subtropical China, Japan, Myanmar, and India (Chen properties. Gyp-XLIX inhibited LPS- and TNF-a-induced NF-kB
and Gilbert, 2006), growing near rivers and in the shade of forests activation in THP-1 monocytes and in HUVECs. Gyp-XLIX
that surround Yangtze River basin and the southern areas of inhibition of NF-kB activation appears to be through a PPAR-a-
China (Chen, 1995). It can be found as a health supplement in dependent pathway (Huang et al., 2006). On the other hand,
beverages, biscuits, face washes, and bath oils (Li et al., 2016). contradictory results were reported by Aktan et al., where G.
The herb has a low level of genetic diversity and a high level of pentaphyllum gypenosides attenuated NF-kB activation. In fact,
variation among populations (Zhang et al., 2019). the gypenosides extracted from G. pentaphyllum could suppress NO
Phytochemical analysis found that G. pentaphyllum extracts production by inhibiting iNOS activity and levels in murine
contain gypenoside saponins, flavonoids, polysaccharides, and macrophages. Gypenoside-mediated decrement of iNOS protein
amino acids (Zheng, 2004; Nookabkaew et al., 2006; Yan et al., expression turned out to be mediated by the inhibition of NF-kB
2013). Its biological effects can range from antimicrobial activation (Aktan et al., 2003). In a different study, Tanner et al.
(Srichana et al., 2011), antioxidant (Muller et al., 2012), showed that G. pentaphyllum could elicit beneficial effects on
anticancer (Schild et al., 2010), anti-inflammatory (Wong et al., vascular function by acting as an inducer of eNOS (Tanner
2017), antidiabetic (Yeo et al., 2008; Huyen et al., 2012), et al., 1999).
antilipidemic (la Cour et al., 1995), and neuroprotective Attenuating lipid accumulation may decrease CVDs incidence.
(Keilhoff et al., 2017) to anti-obesity effects (Gauhar et al., A study assessed the role of ombuine, a dual agonist of PPAR-a and

PPAR-d/b in lipid metabolism. Ombuine or mbuin-3-O-b-d- the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria into the cytosol.
glucopyranoside, a flavonoid from G. pentaphyllum, were applied This further demonstrated the role of gypenosides from G.
to HepG2 cells. Ombuine-stimulated HepG2 cells had activated pentaphyllum as a cytoprotective agent against acute myocardial
PPAR-a and PPAR-d/b, transcription factors that enhance lipolysis. infarction and reperfusion injury (Yu et al., 2016a).
Ombuine-mediated activation of PPAR-a and PPAR-d/b As elucidated to earlier, diabetes is positively correlated with
significantly reduced intracellular concentrations of triglyceride the development of CVDs. The effect of G. pentaphyllum extracts
and cholesterol as well as decreased lipogenic gene expression on fasting blood sugar levels in diabetic mice was assessed. It was
witnessed as decreased levels of sterol regulatory element binding found that the extracts had inhibitory effects on a-glucosidase
protein-1c and stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1. These findings further activity while affecting the protein expression of GLUT2 which
our understanding of how G. pentaphyllum may be involved in lipid highlights its potential to manage diabetes (Wang et al., 2019).
metabolism (Malek et al., 2013). Attenuating obesity, a risk factor for developing CVDs, may
In a study that evaluated the role of total flavonoids of G. decrease CVD incidence. G. pentaphyllum is largely used for the
pentaphyllum on apoptosis in cardiomyocytes of neonatal rats, it management of diseases such as hyperlipidemia, fatty liver, and
was found that hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R)-cardiomyocytes obesity in China. G. pentaphyllum was found to affect lipid
had an increased protein expression of apoptosis-associated metabolism and elicit anti-hyperlipidemic effects by elevating
Fas/FasL genes. Flavonoids of G. pentaphyllum could protect the levels of phosphatidylcholine and decreasing the levels of
cardiomyocytes against H/R injury by decreasing the production trimethylamine N-oxide in the plasma and liver of rats (Wang
of TNF-a and downregulating the protein levels of Fas/FasL et al., 2013). In addition, Gauhar et al. studied the effects of heat
genes leading to inhibition of myocyte apoptosis (Le et al., 2007). processed ethanol extracts of G. pentaphyllum on obese mice.
They found that this extract decreased obesity in ob/ob mice by
In Vivo Preclinical Evaluations of activating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway.
G. pentaphyllum This study suggested a possible mechanism for fat-loss as well as
Gypenosides are G. pentaphyllum key components with the a potential for the use of G. pentaphyllum as a weight-loss
ability to help prevent atherosclerosis. The anti-atherosclerotic supplement (Gauhar et al., 2012). Gypenosides anti-
effects of a mixture (HG) of Fermentum rubrum Hongqu and G. hyperlipidemic effects were examined in rats with poloxamer
pentaphyllum gypenosides were investigated in Wistar rats. The P407-induced hyperlipidemia. Gypenosides at 250 mg/kg of
study results revealed that the HG mixture had antibody weight was orally administered to hyperlipidemic rats.
atherosclerotic effects that were better than statin, simvastatin, Four and 12 days of gypenosides administration reduced
treatment highlighting the anti-atherosclerotic potential of G. plasma triglycerides levels by 53% and 85%, respectively.
pentaphyllum (Gou et al., 2018). In addition, HG alleviated Similarly, total cholesterol levels were decreased by 10% and
oxidative stress biomarkers by restoring antioxidant defense 44%, respectively. Interestingly enough, results were similar to
components and decreasing the serum levels of anti- atorvastatin cholesterol-lowering statin drugs. Additionally, LDL
inflammatory cytokines in male Sprague-Dawley rats with fatty levels were reduced and HDL levels were increased by
liver disease. The HG mixture in this study displayed athero- gypenoside, which also reversed the poloxamer P407 inhibition
protective characteristics (Gou et al., 2016). of lipoprotein lipase activity. This shows a promising therapeutic
Emphasizing the reported G. pentaphyllum gypenoside anti- potential of G. pentaphyllum for lowering high triglyceride and
inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities, Yu et al. demonstrated cholesterol levels during acute hyperlipidemia (Megalli et al.,
their beneficial effects in an ischemia–reperfusion injury rat model 2005). In accordance, extracts from the plant also decreased
where they were found to inhibit apoptosis. Ischemia–reperfusion triglyceride levels and LDL levels in obese Zucher rats (Megalli
injury has detrimental outcomes in CHD. Yu et al. found that in et al., 2006). By employing a new extraction technique, Lee et al.
ischemia reperfusion injured-rats, the administration of described some biological activity of a G. pentaphyllum extract
gypenosides decreased apoptotic rates as well as improved cardiac with a higher content of gypenoside L (1.8% w/w), gypenoside LI
function. Gypenosides inhibited ER-stress and apoptosis through (1.4% w/w), and ginsenoside Rg3 (0.15% w/w) (Lee et al., 2019b).
the blockade of the CHOP pathway and the activation of PI3K/Akt While HFD-fed mice showed significant clinical effects such as
pathway (Yu et al., 2016b). In a different study, it was demonstrated increases in body weight, fat mass, white adipose tissue, and
that pretreatment with gypenosides limited the infarct size and adipocyte hypertrophy as compared to the control group, the
relieved ischemia reperfusion-induced pathological changes in the GPE-treated group failed to show them. GPE treatment also
myocardium, also in an ischemia reperfusion injury rat model. reduced serum levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol, and LDL-
Additionally, left ventricle function was preserved. Molecularly, cholesterol, without affecting HDL-cholesterol. Mechanistically,
gypenosides pre-treatment reduced oxidative stress and restored the clinically observed GPE effects appeared due to increased
the antioxidant machinery in the myocardium. The cardio- AMPK activation and suppressed adipogenesis by decreasing the
protective effects were also evidenced by the preservation of mRNA levels of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-a (C/EBPa),
mitochondrial function in myocytes. In this regard, the PPARg, SREBP-1c, PPARg coactivator-1a, fatty acid synthase,
maintenance of the mitochondrial membrane integrity inhibited adipocyte protein 2, and sirtuin 1, and increased levels of

carnitine palmitoyltransferase and hormone-sensitive lipase (Lee but enrolled only 16 drug-naïve T2DM patients. The authors
et al., 2019b). measured the same parameters and came to the same conclusion
that Gynostemma pentaphyllum tea exerted antidiabetic effects
G. pentaphyllum to the Clinic by improving insulin sensitivity (Huyen et al., 2013). These
In general, there are few human trials that addressed G. results were confirmed by another study where G.
pentaphyllum extract therapeutic effects or safety. A search on pentaphyllum was used together with sulfonylurea (Huyen
clinicaltrials.gov shows that there are only four studies that use et al., 2012). Thus far, the current data indicate that G.
G. pentaphyllum extracts. One of the studies is on obese patients pentaphyllum is quite efficient at improving insulin sensitivity
and three are on diabetes mellitus patients. and blood sugar levels if administered solely and that its efficacy
Actiponin, an extract of G. pentaphyllum, is a dietary may be enhanced when combined with other medications.
supplement used for weight loss in obese individuals. During an
interventional study, 80 randomized Korean participants took part
in a double blind, parallel study for 12 weeks where the Safety, Toxicity, and Side Effects of
experimental group took Actiponin at a dose of 450 mg/day. The G. pentaphyllum
experimental group lost weight with no adverse effects, as compared In a study evaluating the toxicity of G. pentaphyllum extract on
to the placebo group (Park S. et al., 2014). female Sprague-Dawley rats, a single dose of up to 5000 mg/kg of
In another study, 1 mg/kg of the water extract of G. the extract was given and subchronic toxicity tests were performed
pentaphyllum was given to 44 patients with CVDs and 56 healthy with 1000 mg/kg/day for 90 days. No rat death occurred nor did
individuals and the platelet aggregation was studied. It was revealed any signs of toxicity arise. Blood chemistry values, though
that the water extract elicited significant inhibition of the statistically different from the control group, were within normal
aggregation of platelets. This means that there is potential for the ranges in rats. Thus, no mortality nor abnormalities have risen
use of this supplement to prevent cardio-cerebrovascular diseases from the G. pentaphyllum extract treatment (Chiranthanut et al.,
while being cautious not to give these supplements to patients who 2013). In addition, no toxicity or mortality was reported upon
suffer from low platelet count or bleeding disorders (Juan and long-term administration of a dose up to 750 mg/kg body weight
Shanzhang, 1995). of G. pentaphyllum in rats (Attawish et al., 2004).
Some studies suggest there is a link between anxiety disorders A Phase I clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the safety of
and an increased risk of developing a CVD (Fan et al., 2008; G. pentaphyllum whereby three groups of healthy volunteers
Vogelzangs et al., 2010; Seldenrijk et al., 2011; Batelaan et al., were administered 50, 200, and 400 mg twice daily with water
2014). For this reason, it is of interest to reduce anxiety in order to extract of G. pentaphyllum for two months. No major immune
decrease the risk of developing CVD in predisposed individuals. It adverse events such as significant changes in natural killer cell
was shown that G. pentaphyllum ethanol extract had anti-anxiety activities, number of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cells, were
effects on mice exposed to chronic stress (Choi H. et al., 2013). reported. No biochemical parameters were significantly affected
This finding was replicated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled either. Such doses of G. pentaphyllum were deemed to be safe
clinical trial that had 72 healthy Korean individuals under chronic (Chavalittumrong et al., 2007). In another clinical trial, 537
stressful conditions. Thirty-six participants were given 200 mg of bronchitic patients were treated three times a day with G.
G. pentaphyllum ethanol extract, twice a day for 8 weeks. The pentaphyllum (2.5–3 g, prepared as tablets or capsules).
supplementation reduced the experimental group anxiety without Adverse side effects that included vomiting, abdomen tension,
any adverse drug effects suggesting its potential as a safe anti- diarrhea (or constipation), dizziness, blurred vision, and tinnitus
anxiety supplement (Choi et al., 2019). effects were seen in a small number of patients. Notably, these
Although the proven pharmacological effects of G. symptoms were mild and did not stop the patients from taking
pentaphyllum in in vitro studies and in vivo animal studies the G. pentaphyllum extract (Razmovski-Naumovski et al., 2005).
may not necessarily translate well into efficacy human subjects, A very recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled
there are positive studies. For instance, a set of studies conducted clinical trial utilizing G. pentaphyllum extract in 72 healthy
in T2DM patients supplemented with G. pentaphyllum tea adults revealed no adverse side effects of the ingestion of the
showed improvements in insulin sensitivity and glycemia with ethanolic extract of G. pentaphyllum (Choi et al., 2019). Overall,
no adverse side effects (Huyen et al., 2010; Huyen et al., 2013). In consumption of G. pentaphyllum seems to be safe at the doses
one of the trials, 24 drug-naïve T2DM patients were randomized required to observe a therapeutic effect.
to take either 6 g daily of Gynostemma pentaphyllum tea or
placebo tea, during 1- week period. The authors measured FPG, CONCLUSION
insulin levels, and HbA1c levels before, during, and after the
treatment. The study showed a prompt improvement of glycemia Despite the abundance of knowledge regarding CVDs, CVD
and insulin sensitivity, and suggested that Gynostemma prevalence continues to be on the rise. Thus, there is an
pentaphyllum tea could be an effective, and safe approach to immediate demand for new safe, effective, and relatively cheap
treat T2DM patients (Huyen et al., 2010). The same authors drug candidates. Mounting evidence obtained from in vitro and
followed up with another study that used the same study design in vivo studies suggests that the four traditionally used medicinal

A B
FIGURE 5 | Gynostemma pentaphyllum. (A) Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Source https://pngtree.com/freepng). Examples of the chemical structure of Gynostemma
pentaphyllum Gypenoside that are usually synthesized 20 S-Protopanaxadiol (PPD). (B) example of some chemical structures of Gypenosides.
FIGURE 6 | Herbal therapies in the context of CVDs. Herbal preparations can exert protective effects by ameliorating the pathological effects exerted by CVDs risk
factors. The herbal extracts can attenuate endothelial dysfunction and/or VSMC alterations by acting as, vasodilators, ROS scavengers, anti-oxidants, anti-
inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-hypertrophic, or anti-proliferative agents. This achieved through mechanisms that act in ECs only, VSMCs only, or through
overlapping mechanism that act in both ECs and VSMCs. In ECs, herbal preparations can increase NO availability, decrease mitochondrial dysfunction and/or
metabolic abnormalities as well as enhance angiogenesis. This can decrease the incidence of atherosclerosis and hypertension, which in return can decrease the risk
of CVDs development. In VSMCs, the herbal extracts can modulate ECM deposition as well as cell migration, proliferation, and cell shape changes. VSMC, vascular
smooth muscle cell; ECM, extracellular matrix; EC, endothelial cell; NO, nitric oxide; PPARY, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma.

TABLE 2 | Summary of the mechanisms of action of the four discussed plants.
Plant Mechanism of action References
Ginseng Bioactive/active fractions: Improves lipid profile (Kim et al., 1999b; Keum et al.,
Rb1, Rg1, Rg3, Re, and Rd • By acting as an agonist of PPAR 2003; Park et al., 2005; Persson
Commonly used extracts: Controls hypertension and improve endothelial function et al., 2006; Shin Y. et al., 2013;
Panax ginseng, Panax notoginseng, Panax • By Inhibition of ACE Park J. et al., 2014; Lee H. et al.,
quinquefolium L., Panax japonicas • By reducing adrenal catecholamines levels, elevating NO and 2016; Deng et al., 2017; Singh
cGMP levels et al., 2017; Lee et al., 2019a)
• By activating Ca2+-gated potassium channels
Controls inflammation
• By inhibiting AP‐1 and NF‐kB
• By reducing COX‐2, IL‐6, IL‐1b, TNF‐a, CD68, MCP-1 and
MMP levels
Ameliorates oxidative stress
• By exhibiting free radical scavenging and metal ion chelating
abilities
• By promoting enhanced expression of antioxidant proteins,
such as Nrf2 and HO-1
Ameliorates mitochondrial dysfunction
Modulates angiogenesis
• By decreasing VEGF-A and FGF-2 levels
Gingko Biloba Bioactive/active fractions: Improves lipid profile (Akiba et al., 2007; Lin et al.,
Ginkgolides classified into either A, B, C, J, • By decreasing PPARs levels 2007; Mansour et al., 2011; Liu
or M types Controls hypertension and improves endothelial function et al., 2013; Liou et al., 2015;
Commonly used extracts: • By decreasing ACE activity, activating cholinergic pathways, Mesquita et al., 2017; Abdel-
EGb761 limiting LPS-induced proliferation of VSMCs Zaher et al., 2018; Huang et al.,
• By decreasing ICAM‐1 and VCAM‐1 expression, decreasing 2018; Chen et al., 2019).
phosphorylation of Akt/FoxO3a
• By restoring eNOS activity, decreasing iNOS expression and
consequently elevating NO levels
• By suppressing TLR-4 expression
• By decreasing MMP-1, MCP-1, TNF-a, IL-6, or IL-1b
Ameliorates oxidative stress
• By decreasing NOX activity and level, activating endogenous
Akt/Nrf2 antioxidant stress pathway
• By increasing levels of HO-1, SOD and GSH-Px
• By reducing the phosphorylation of MAPKs
Prevents hypertrophy
• By activating M2 muscarinic receptors/NO pathway
• By decreasing calcium overload and inhibiting the Na+/Ca2+
exchanger
Prevents apoptosis
• By decreasing caspase 3 and pro-apoptotic Bax expression
and increasing anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression
Ganoderma Bioactive/active fractions: Controls hypertension and improves endothelial function (Hikino et al., 1985; Tomoda
lucidum ganoderic acids A, B, C, D, F, H, K, S, and • By inhibition of ACE, enhancing Angiotensin 1-mediated et al., 1986; Shi et al., 2002; Shi
Y, b-d-Glucan polysaccharides phosphorylation of eNOS et al., 2010; Lasukova et al.,
Commonly used extracts: • By reducing the levels of vasoconstrictor peptide Endothelin-1 2015; Wang et al., 2015;
Polysaccharide peptide (PsP) Ganoderma Improves lipid profile Wihastuti and Heriansyah, 2017;
lucidum • By upregulating lipid metabolism (ACOX1 and ACC) Cuong et al., 2019; Wu et al.,
Ameliorates oxidative stress and inflammation 2019)
• By enhancing phosphorylation of Nrf2 which upregulates HO-1,
GST, NQO-1, SOD, CAT, GSH-Px and GSH
• By decreasing the levels of MDA and ICAM, and regulation of
mTOR/S6K signaling pathways
Reduces necrosis
• By decreasing the levels of creatine phosphokinase
(Continued)

TABLE 2 | Continued
Plant Mechanism of action References
Gynostemma Bioactive/active fractions: Improves lipid profile (Huang et al., 2006; Megalli
pentaphyllum dammarane-type triterpene saponins • By activation of PPAR-a and PPAR-d/b, decreasing the levels et al., 2006; Malek et al., 2013;
(gypenosides or gynosaponins) of sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c and stearoyl- Yu et al., 2016b; Yang et al.,
Commonly used extracts: CoA desaturase-1 2017; Wang et al., 2018; Lin
Actiponin, Ombuine • By activation of the AMPK pathway et al., 2019)
Ameliorate oxidative stress and decreases apoptosis
• By decreasing the levels of MDA, increasing the levels of SOD,
GSH, Nrf2, NQO-1 and HO-1
• By downregulating Fas/FasL, blocking CHOP pathway
• By regulating the activation of PI3K/Akt pathway
• By decreasing LPS- and TNF-a-induced NF-kB through
regulating PPAR-a
PPAR, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor; ACE, acetylcholinesterase; NO, nitric oxide; AP‐1, activator protein 1; NF‐kB, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B
cells; COX, cyclooxygenase; IL, interleukin; TNF, tumor necrosis factor; CD, cluster of differentiation; MCP, monocyte chemoattractant; MMP, matrix metalloproteases; Nrf2, nuclear factor
erythroid-2-related factor 2; HO-1, hemeoxygenase-1; VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor; FGF, fibroblast growth factor; VSMCs, vascular smooth muscle cells; ICAM, intercellular
adhesion molecule; VCAM, vascular cell adhesion molecule; Akt, protein kinase B; FoxO3a, forkhead box O; eNOS, endothelial nitric oxide synthase; iNOS, inducible nitric oxide synthase;
TLR, toll-like receptor; NOC, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase; SOD, superoxide dismutase; GSH-Px, glutathione peroxidase; MAPK, mitogen-activated protein
kinase; ACOX1, peroxisomal acyl-coenzyme A oxidase 1; ACC, acetyl-CoA carboxylase; GST, glutathione S-transferase; NQO-1, NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (quinone); GSH, glutathione;
MDA, malondialdehyde; mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin complex; S6K, S6 kinase; AMPK, AMP-activated protein kinase; CHOP, C/EBP homologous protein.
plants discussed in this review significantly modulate key context of CVDs. Above all, the future clinical trials should
cellular, molecular, and metabolic mechanisms that control address the safety and toxicity of these herbal remedies.
both CVDs pathogenesis and pathophysiology (Figure 6).
Here are presented the recent findings, advances, and studies
describing the therapeutic values of these plants in the context of AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS
several CVDs. Current evidence demonstrates that these herbal
AS ideated and wrote the manuscript. DT, HP, TN, and GN
medicines have potent therapeutic properties and can ameliorate
contributed to manuscript writing and editing. SAH, HH, and
pathological conditions associated with CVDs (Table 2 and
SH contributed to manuscript writing and figures drawing. AE
Figure 6). However, clear clinical therapeutic benefits have not
and GP contributed to manuscript ideation, revision, and editing
yet been secured. As such, these herbal treatments cannot be
safely recommended as an alternative therapeutic medicine. In
fact, the safety and toxicity of some of these plants have recently FUNDING
raised potential concerns (eg. Gingko Biloba). We conclude that
better-designed studies and future clinical trials involving larger This work has been made possible thanks to grants (Ager S.O.S.)
sample sizes are needed to investigate the role of different and (fondo di Ateneo per la ricerca 2019) to GP and Qatar
medicinal plants and their underlying mechanisms in the University grant (IRCC-2019-007) to GN and GP.
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Herbal Medicine for Cardiovascular Diseases: Efﬁcacy, Mechanisms, and

Article in Frontiers in Pharmacology · April 2020

Abdullah A Shaito Thuan Duong

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Hoa Thi Phu Thi Hieu Dung Nguyen

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Herbal Medicine for Cardiovascular

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INTRODUCTION suffer a stroke due to vascular impairment. Major culprits in

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TABLE 2 | Summary of the mechanisms of action of the four discussed plants.

Plant Mechanism of action References

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Plant Mechanism of action References

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