The Effects of Tinospora crispa Aqueous Extract on C-Reactive Protein Level and Development of Atherosclerotic Plaques

Tinospora crispa is reported to have anti-atherosclerotic effects and has great potential for use in traditional medicine, supplements and pharmaceutical preparations. However, to date there is not much literature documenting the effects of this plant on C-reactive protein and the development of atherosclerotic plaques in the event of hypercholesterolemia. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effect of Tinospora crispa aqueous extract (TCAE) on C-reactive protein levels and the development of atherosclerotic plaques to better understand the possible mechanisms contributing to the anti-atherosclerotic effects of this plant. The results showed that TCAE was found to inhibit the development of atherosclerotic plaques caused by dietary cholesterol. The anti-atherosclerotic potential of TCAE is demonstrated by its ability to reduce CRP levels, atherosclerotic plaque coverage area and foam cell thickness at atherosclerotic lesions and maintain endothelial healing after arterial injury. Administration of 450 mg / kg of T. crispa extract was found to be the optimal concentration to control hypercholesterolemia and in turn reduce the risk factors of coronary artery disease.