Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has more than 2,000 years of history and has gained widespread clinical applications. However, the explicit role of TCM in preventing and treating cardiovascular disease remains unclear due to a lack of sound scientific evidence. Currently available randomized controlled trials on TCM are flawed, with small sample sizes and diverse outcomes, making it difficult to draw definite conclusions about the actual benefits and harms of TCM. Here, we systematically assessed the efficacy and safety of TCM for cardiovascular disease, as well as the pharmacological effects of active TCM ingredients on the cardiovascular system and potential mechanisms. Results indicate that TCM might be used as a complementary and alternative approach to the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, further rigorously designed randomized controlled trials are warranted to assess the effect of TCM on long-term hard endpoints in patients with cardiovascular disease. (C) 2017 by the American College of Cardiology Foundation.
[1]Shandong Univ, Qilu Hosp, Key Lab Cardiovasc Remodeling & Funct Res, Chinese Minist Educ, 107 Wen Hua Xi Rd, Jinan 250012, Shandong, Peoples R China.
[2]Shandong Univ, Qilu Hosp, Chinese Minist Hlth, 107 Wen Hua Xi Rd, Jinan 250012, Shandong, Peoples R China.
[3]Shandong Univ, Qilu Hosp, State & Shandong Prov Joint Key Lab Translat Card, Jinan, Shandong, Peoples R China.
[4]Shandong Univ, Sch Basic Med, Dept Physiol & Pathophysiol, Jinan, Shandong, Peoples R China.
[5]Shandong Univ, Qilu Hosp, Dept Tradit Chinese Med, 107 Wen Hua Xi Rd, Jinan 250012, Shandong, Peoples R China.
(8.0+极速模式)