Therapeutic Potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. in Attenuating Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular research
• Phytomedicine
• Natural product pharmacology

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading global cause of mortality, driven by risk factors including hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia.
• Conventional treatments for CVDs can cause adverse side effects, increasing interest in natural alternatives.
• Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) possesses bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic benefits for cardiovascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review preclinical and clinical evidence on roselle's efficacy in managing cardiovascular risk factors.
• To explore the mechanisms underlying roselle's cardioprotective effects.
• To assess roselle's potential as a prophylactic and therapeutic agent for CVDs.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing preclinical (in vitro and animal) and clinical studies.
• Analysis of roselle's phytochemical composition and associated bioactivities.
• Evaluation of studies investigating roselle's impact on hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis.

Main Results:

• Roselle exhibits significant anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-hypertensive properties.
• The plant demonstrates potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic activities.
• Evidence suggests roselle can attenuate key mechanisms contributing to CVD progression, including oxidative damage and cardiac remodeling.

Conclusions:

• Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), particularly its calyx, shows considerable promise as a natural therapeutic agent for cardiovascular protection.
• Its multifaceted bioactivities address multiple CVD risk factors and underlying pathological processes.
• Further clinical research is warranted to fully establish roselle's role in CVD prevention and management.