The role of traditional herbal medicine in the management of cardiovascular diseases: A comprehensive review

Herbal medicines (HMs) have a long history in prophylaxis and dealing with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The use is increasing, with many patients combining HMs with given cardiovascular medications. Alarmingly, 70% of patients do not inform their cardiologists about their HM use, and 90% of physicians usually do not ask about it. Some scientific evidence from well-build clinical trials supports the effectiveness and security of HMs, and they do not lessen morbidity and mortality, thus not being recommended in clinical guidelines for CVD treatment. There is uncertainty regarding the identification, active components, and mechanisms of action of herbal medicines, made more complicated by issues of standardization and quality control, including contamination and adulteration. The common assumption that herbal medicines (HMs) are always safe is inaccurate; certain HMs may lead to significant adverse effects and interactions, especially when combined with cardiovascular drugs that have a limited range of effectiveness, like antiarrhythmics, antithrombotics, and digoxin. Cardiologists need to deepen their knowledge of herbal medicines to offer the best guidance and avoid negative side effects and drug interactions. The proposed mechanisms of action, potential clinical applications, and safety of frequently utilized herbal medicines (HMs) highlight the important role of cardiologists and physicians in protecting consumers while confronting the primary obstacles and deficiencies in research on the effectiveness of HMs for managing heart disease.