Ginger: A Nutraceutical Supplement for Protection Against Various Cardiovascular Diseases in Clinical Trials

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are increasing in prevalence, causing significant health issues and remaining one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Medical herbs continue to be used as an alternative treatment approach for several diseases, including various CVDs. Since ancient times, certain herbs have been safely used to alleviate the risk of developing CVD and control or improve the symptoms of medical conditions, such as in cases of congestive heart failure, angina, atherosclerosis, and systolic hypertension. Ginger is one of the medicinal herbs that neutral agents use to prevent and treat various CVDs. Ginger has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory components and may improve cardiovascular risk factors. The natural components of ginger effectively inhibit inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance; may reduce fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels; and prevent CVDs. Ginger can be an alternative that has lower side effects. Ginger's bioactive components may improve human blood lipid profile and decrease blood sugar levels. Further research is necessary to confirm ginger phytochemicals' efficacy and mechanism for various CVDs. The present review aims to summarize the effects of ginger's bioactive compounds on cardiovascular diseases.

Keywords: atherosclerosis; ginger; gingerols; hyperlipidemia; hypertension; nutraceutical; phytochemical.

Figure 1. Metabolization of 6-gingerol

Mechanism of effects of 6-gingerol on cardiovascular disease Created by Aimen E. Ben Ayad