AKBA
The gum of Boswellia trees frequently contains the chemical AKBA. Native to India and Pakistan, Boswellia has been used for many years in ayurveda to treat a wide range of ailments, including inflammation and discomfort. Recently, there has been increased interest in the potential health benefits of AKBA.
The capacity of AKBA to lessen inflammation is among its most well-known potential benefits. Studies show that AKBA can reduce inflammation by blocking enzymes involved in the inflammatory response.
Because of how it works, AKBA is a good option for those with inflammatory conditions like arthritis who need to treat chronic inflammation.
In addition to reducing inflammation, AKBA has also been studied for its potential to fight cancer. In preliminary studies, it has been shown that AKBA inhibits the proliferation of some cancer cells, particularly those linked to breast, colon, and prostate cancer.
Even while much more research is needed to fully understand AKBA's anticancer potential, these early findings are intriguing. AKBA has also been shown to offer potential benefits for brain health. Studies suggest that it may possess neuroprotective qualities, making it a useful medication for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer and Parkinson disease) [1].
Cardiovascular Health and Related Disorders
The condition of the heart, blood vessels, and circulatory system are all considered to be components of cardiovascular health. A person's entire health and well-being can be significantly impacted by anything that impacts the health of these organs. Understanding cardiovascular health and related disorders is crucial.
The heart is a crucial organ that circulates oxygen-rich blood through blood arteries to every area of the body. The foundation of excellent cardiovascular health is a healthy heart. A heart that is in decent shape allows a person to live an active and fulfilling life.
Yet, a variety of variables can harm cardiovascular health and result in diseases that are connected. Coronary artery disease, heart failure, strokes, and peripheral artery disease are a few of the well-known cardiovascular illnesses [2].
Millions of people throughout the world suffer from the prevalent cardiovascular illness known as high blood pressure. It is brought on by excessive blood pressure against blood vessel walls, which can harm the heart and blood vessels.
In a similar vein, coronary artery disease is a condition that manifests as blockage or narrowing of the blood vessels supplying the heart as a result of the buildup of cholesterol and other chemicals in the blood vessel walls. Breathlessness, chest pain, and even a heart attack may result from this.
When blood supply to the heart muscles is restricted then it cause damage to the heart and leads to heart attack. It is a serious ailment that needs immediate medical care. Similarly to this, heart failure happens when the heart muscle weakens and cannot properly pump blood. Chest pain, exhaustion, and breathing difficulties may result from this.
Stroke is a serious condition that damages the brain when the blood flow to it is cut off. It may be caused by a blood vessel rupture or blood vessel blockage. Long-term impairments may result from this potentially fatal disorder [3].
The illness known as peripheral artery disease develops when the blood arteries that carry blood to the legs and feet become congested or obstructed. Walking may be painful and uncomfortable as a result.
One should follow a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, frequent exercise, stress management, and refraining from smoking and binge drinking to preserve good cardiovascular health.
To maintain cardiovascular health and identify any potential issues, routine medical exams are essential. To stop the advancement of associated disorders and to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle, cardiovascular health must be managed.
AKBA as a Cardioprotective Agent
AKBA is a triterpenoid substance produced from the Boswellia serrata (gum extract). Many studies have suggested that AKBA's anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiplatelet qualities may have cardioprotective benefits.
Proinflammatory cytokines (IL 1, 6 and TNF alpha) production, which are known to be essential in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disorders, was found to be inhibited by AKBA. As a result, AKBA can lessen cardiovascular system inflammation and stop endothelial dysfunction, which is a sign of atherosclerosis [4].
By scavenging free radicals and defending the endothelium from oxidative damage, that plays a significant part in the development of heart problems, AKBA has strong antioxidant activity. Also, it was shown that AKBA inhibits the development of blood clots that can obstruct blood vessels and result in a heart attack or stroke by lowering platelet aggregation and thrombus formation [5].
Overall, AKBA has numerous cardioprotective properties, such as lowering oxidative stress, inflammation, and platelet aggregation, which work together to preserve cardiovascular health and stave off the onset of cardiovascular illnesses.
Cardiovascular disease, which is defined by the constriction or obstruction of blood vessels and frequently results in cardiovascular problems, is the leading cause of mortality in the world. Some risk factors for cardiovascular disease that can all have an impact on the illness's development are [6]:
Smoking
obesity
high blood pressure
high cholesterol
According to research, AKBA can enhance general heart health in many ways and help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. For instance, it has been discovered that AKBA contains anti-inflammatory characteristics that aid in controlling chronic inflammation, a significant contributor to cardiovascular disease. AKBA aids in preventing atherosclerosis (arterial hardening), and other cardiovascular issues, including plaque accumulation in blood vessels by lowering inflammation.
Moreover, it has been demonstrated that AKBA possesses antithrombotic characteristics, which can aid in preventing blood clots from forming in blood vessels.
Heart attacks and strokes can be brought on by blood clots that stop the passage of blood to the brain or heart. By preventing blood platelets from clumping together, which might aid in the formation of clots, AKBA also has antiplatelet effects.
Also, it has been discovered that AKBA can increase the level of HDL which is a good cholesterol and decrease TGs and LDL level in the serum. Elevated triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels are recognized risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The removal of extra cholesterol from the arteries by HDL cholesterol, meantime, aids in the prevention of heart disease [7].
Finally, AKBA has many potential advantages for cardiovascular health. AKBA may help lower the chance of developing heart disease or experiencing problems from pre-existing heart issues by lowering inflammation, preventing blood clots, and enhancing cholesterol levels.
The effects of AKBA on cardiovascular health are yet unknown, however, the evidence that is now available shows that this natural substance may be useful as a supplement or medication for controlling cardiovascular disease.
Pre-Clinical and Clinical Trial Data
One of the main factors contributing to morbidity and mortality globally is cardiovascular disease. Although there are many therapeutic alternatives available, cardiovascular disease still has a high prevalence, emphasizing the need for innovative and potent treatments.
Data from clinical and human trials suggest that AKBA may be helpful for cardiovascular health.
Anti-inflammatory activities of AKBA have been demonstrated, and these qualities have been connected to cardiovascular disease. The endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels, is damaged by chronic inflammation, which can cause atherosclerosis, a condition in which the arteries harden and narrow as a result of the accumulation of plaque. In turn, heart attacks and strokes may become more likely.
Researchers have shown that AKBA can prevent the synthesis of many inflammatory chemicals, including TNF-, IL-1, and NF-B, which have been implicated in the progression of atherosclerosis [8].
Studies have looked into how AKBA affects lipid metabolism, which is crucial for the onset and progression of cardiovascular disease. In trials on animals, AKBA decreased triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol. The potential advantages of AKBA for cardiovascular health were further supported by the discovery that it lowers cholesterol in human trials [9].
Also demonstrated to possess antiplatelet qualities is AKBA. Little blood cells called platelets are essential for blood clotting. The danger of blood clots, which can cause heart attacks and strokes, can rise with high platelet counts. It has been discovered that AKBA inhibits platelet activation, lowering the risk of blood clots.
Moreover, AKBA was proven to have antihypertensive qualities in animal experiments by lowering blood pressure. It was reported that high blood pressure can increase the risk of stroke and heart related problems. AKBA may lower the risk of heart illnesses by lowering blood pressure [10].
While the studies suggest that AKBA may have positive effects on cardiovascular health, additional research is required to substantiate these results. Nevertheless, the available data hints that AKBA might be helpful in the therapy and prevention of cardiovascular disease. It is a promising substance for additional investigation in this area due to its anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, antiplatelet, and antihypertensive activities.
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