Watermelon and L-Citrulline in Cardio-Metabolic Health: Review of the Evidence 2000-2020.
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Rhodiola sacra is a component with many medicinal uses, including anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation. Researchers investigated its neuroprotective effects against transient global cerebral ischemia (tGCI) in male rats. They found that pretreatment or/and post-treatment significantly reduced neuronal injury, inhibited glial activation, and improved cognitive function. Molecular docking showed that Rhodiola sacra targets adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) α2-subunit and upregulates phosphorylated AMPK and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Additionally, Rhodiola sacra increased heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression and activity and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the hippocampal CA1 region. These findings demonstrate that Rhodiola sacra prevents oxidant stress and protects neurons through activating the AMPK/Nrf2 pathway.
Hibiscus sabdariffa significantly reduces blood pressure in patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension, but not in patients with metabolic syndrome or when compared to antihypertensive drugs. More research is needed for long-term efficacy.