Background:
As a major cause of morbidity and mortality, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are globally
increasing. In spite of recent development in the management of cardiovascular complications, CVDs have remained a
medical challenge. Numerous conventional drugs are used to play cardioprotective roles; however, they are associated
with several side effects. Considering the rich phytochemistry and fewer side effects of herbal medicines, they have
gained particular attention to develop novel herbal drugs with cardioprotective potentials. Amongst natural entities, ginger
is an extensively used and well-known functional food and condiment, possessing plentiful bioactivities, like antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties in several disorders management.
Objective:
The current review deliberated phytochemical properties as well as the ginger/ginger constituents' biological
activities and health benefits in several diseases, with particular attention to cardiovascular complications.
Methods:
A comprehensive research was conducted using multiple databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Medline, Web
of Science, national database (Irandoc and SID), and related articles in terms of the health benefits and cardioprotective
effects of ginger/ginger constituents. These data were collected from inception until August 2019.
Results:
In recent years, several herbal medicines were used to develop new drugs with more potency and also minor side
effects. Amongst natural entities, ginger is an extensively used traditional medicine in several diseases. The crude extract,
along with related pungent active constituents, is mostly attributed to heart health. The cardioprotective effects of ginger
are contributed to its cardiotonic, antihypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemia, and anti-platelet effects. The signaling pathways
and molecular mechanisms of ginger regarding its cardioprotective effects are also clarified.
Conclusion:
This study revealed the biological activities, health benefits, and cardioprotective properties of ginger/ginger
constituents along with related mechanisms of action, which gave new insights to show new avenue in the treatment of
CVDs.