Published online Jul 15, 2024. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v15.i7.1603
Revised: April 22, 2024
Accepted: May 16, 2024
Published online: July 15, 2024
Processing time: 137 Days and 22.5 Hours
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disease of impaired glucose utilization and a major cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The pathogenesis of both diseases shares common risk factors and mechanisms, and both are significant contributors to global morbidity and mortality. Supplements of natural products for T2D mellitus (T2DM) and CVD can be seen as a potential preventive and effective therapeutic strategy.
To critically evaluate the therapeutic potential of natural products in T2D and coronary artery disease (CAD).
By using specific keywords, we strategically searched the PubMed database. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched as the primary focus that examined the effect of natural products on glycemic control, oxidative stress, and antioxidant levels. We focused on outcomes such as low blood glucose levels, adjustment on markers of oxidative stress and antioxidants. After screening full-length papers, we included 9 RCTs in our review that met our inclusion criteria.
In the literature search on the database, we found that various natural products like plant secondary metabolites play a diverse role in the management of CAD. American ginseng, sesame oil and cocoa flavanols proved effective in lowering blood glucose levels and controlling blood pressure, which are key factors in managing T2DM and CVD. In diabetic patients Melissa officinalis effectively reduce inflammation and shows diabetes prevention. Both fish oil and flaxseed oil reduced insulin levels and inflammatory markers, suggesting benefits for both conditions. The lipid profile and endothelial function were enhanced by Nigella sativa oil and Terminalia chebula, which is significant for the management of cardiovascular risk factors in T2DM. Additionally Bilberry extract also showed promise for improving glycemic control in patients with T2DM.
The high level of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenic properties found in natural products makes them promising therapeutic options for the management of CAD, with the potential benefit of lowering the risk of CAD.
Core Tip: This systematic review investigated the potential of natural products in the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Various natural ingredients such as American ginseng, cocoa flavanol, sesame oil, flaxseed oil, fish oil, Melissa officinalis, Terminalia chebula, Nigella sativa oil, bilberry extract have shown significantly effect on glycemic control, blood pressure management, decreased insulin sensitivity and inflammatory markers, lipid profile, endocrine and enhancement of work done. These findings suggest that natural products offer promising therapeutics for T2D and CVD applications because of their anti-inflammatory properties and anti-atherosclerotic properties, it can reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications in T2D.