Natural products in cardiovascular disease treatment- a comprehensive review

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including coronary artery disease, heart failure, hypertension, and stroke, are major global health concerns, contributing to significant disease burden and economic strain. Conventional treatments, while effective, often come with high costs and side effects, highlighting the need for alternative therapies. Natural products derived from plants, animals, and microorganisms have been found to have therapeutic potential in treating CVDs due to their bioactive compounds and reduced toxicity. This review focuses on the role of natural products in CVD treatment. Compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids have demonstrated positive effects on oxidative stress, inflammation and lipid profiles, crucial in CVD progression. Notable examples include omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin, and resveratrol, which have shown cardioprotective properties in research. The review is intended to present an up-to-date overview of natural products in CVD prevention and treatment as well as discuss potential directions for further research.