Current status of research on the role of natural products and their active ingredients in the treatment of cardiovascular aging: a narrative review

Aging is a multifaceted physiological process marked by alterations in human appearance and the progressive decline in organ function. With the intensification of global population aging, the health of older individuals has emerged as a critical concern, particularly given the significant impact of cardiovascular aging on overall health outcomes. Although aging is an inevitable natural process, strategies aimed at delaying its progression can enhance cardiovascular function. In recent years, natural products have garnered increasing attention for their potential in disease intervention, attributed to their high efficacy and relatively low side-effect profiles. These products have demonstrated anti-aging effects in several studies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying cardiovascular aging and reviews the biological activities of various natural products and their active constituents in combating cardiovascular aging. It encompasses the latest findings and trends from both in vitro and in vivo studies, thereby offering a theoretical foundation for the development of novel, low side effect, and rapidly acting natural drugs that target cardiovascular aging. Natural products exert anti-cardiovascular aging effects through multiple mechanisms, including antioxidant activity, apoptosis inhibition, anti-thrombosis, anti-fibrosis, anti-atherosclerosis, and blood pressure regulation. For instance, water-soluble components of Salvia miltiorrhiza , such as tanshinone and salvianolic acid B, improve cardiovascular function by modulating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Ligustrazine in Rhizoma Chuanxiong reduces myocardial injury by activating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-protein kinase B signaling pathway, whereas Ginkgo biloba leaf extract enhances vascular function by regulating oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, animal-derived natural products, such as antler peptides and royal jelly, have demonstrated significant cardioprotective effects. However, current studies possess limitations, with insufficient evidence supporting the clinical application of many natural products. Their long-term effects and safety in humans require further validation. Despite these challenges, natural products hold significant potential in combating cardiovascular aging, particularly in improving cardiovascular health among the elderly. With continued research into the mechanisms of action of these natural products and the advancement of clinical trials, they are expected to become important tools for enhancing the quality of life in the elderly. Future research should further explore the clinical potential of these natural products to develop safer and more effective anti-cardiovascular aging drugs, thereby contributing positively to societal health.