The research results presented in this book describe the quest of Cape Kingdom Nutraceuticals, Prof. Patrick Bouic and Prof. Barbara Huisamen to scientifically validate the health-promoting properties of an aqueous extract of the plant Agathosma. To accomplish this, they used both in vitro and in vivo models to understand and underscore the anecdotal information regarding the benefits of this product. Cell-based studies were utilised to highlight anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects, whereas animal-based studies were utilised to confirm the anti-diabetic effects while further elaborating the anti-obesity properties. In addition, technology aimed at small animals was used to demonstrate, by means of blood pressure measurement, anti-hypertensive effects, while ex vivo perfused hearts were studied to show that this extract could also protect the heart against an ischaemic incident. The research summarised in this book is novel, original and has not been published previously, and the results presented validate future use of this extract for the above-mentioned health-promoting properties. In view of the current pandemic of obesity and non-communicable diseases, the research results presented in this book will be of special interest to the scientific community and health practitioners interested in cardiometabolic diseases and nutraceuticals as an alternative treatment option. In light of the failure of many pharmaceuticals to curb noncommunicable diseases, these results are deemed of high importance.
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