Applications of Phytomedicines in Cardiovascular Regeneration Therapy: Pre-Clinical and Clinical Studies Publisher



Sheibani M ; Shayan M ; Mohammadgholibeiki A ; Sharifi MA ; Jafarisabet M ; Sharifi AM
Source: Physiology and Pharmacology (Iran) Published:2025

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death in human societies. Several medicinal and interventional therapeutic approaches are approved for the treatment of CVDs, one of which is phytomedicine. Phytomedicine is described as the exploitation of the therapeutic properties of herbal medicines. The cardioprotective effects of phytochemicals are due to their anti-oxidative, anti-hypercholesterolemia, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, and anti-ischemic activities, reducing the risk factors of developing CVDs. Regenerative medicine (RM) is a well-established field that aims to replace, repair, and regenerate diseased and injured human cells, tissues, or organs. Stem cells’ (SC) potential to differentiate into various cell types and their self-renewal capabilities have made them an excellent tool for applying RM in CVD. The intersection of phytomedicines and regenerative medicine can be categorized into two main areas. Phytochemicals have been shown to significantly enhance the proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). For example, certain plant extracts promote osteogenic (bone-forming) and chondrogenic (cartilage-forming) differentiation of MSCs, thereby enhancing stem cell function. Additionally, plant-derived compounds can mitigate the side effects associated with conventional therapies while offering effective treatment options for tissue regeneration (natural alternatives to traditional therapeutics). This paper reviews current evidence and studies on the beneficial properties of phytomedicines in cardiac RM, both in animal models and in humans. In summary, all of the mentioned studies suggestthat the use of phytomedicine may be directly or indirectly involved in cardiogenesis and angiogenesis by stimulating endogenous SCs and their secretory activity, modulating cytokine release, signal transduction, and elevating the levels of several cardiac regeneration factors. On the other hand, various mechanisms through which these herbal medicines act, such as reducing oxidative stress, controlling inflammation, and promoting angiogenesis, underscore their potential as viable alternatives or adjuncts to conventional therapies for cardiovascular diseases. The integration of phytomedicine into clinical practice could lead to enhanced overall therapeutic efficacy, more effective and personalized treatment, fewer cardiovascular risks and better health outcomes. Further research is required to elucidate the specific molecular pathways through which phytomedicines exert their beneficial effects on cardiac tissue. Understanding these mechanisms will help in developing targeted therapies. © 2025, Iranian Society of Physiology and Pharmacology. All rights reserved.