This is a wide ranged research study to see any measurable impacts of herb consumption on individuals dealing with heart issues. Beginning Nov 1st 2023, Ending February 1 2024.
What is being studied?
The study focuses on investigating the effects of a herbal blend, composed of Gojiberry (Lycium Barbarum), Astragalus (Astragalus Membranaceus), Reishi (Ganoderma Lucidum), and Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum), on cardiovascular health through stress reduction. The study aims to assess trends or changes in heart function amongst a group of random Americans dealing with varying heart health concerns. We will be measuring stress levels both subjectively and objectively over a 90-day period.
What is the point of the study?
The main objective of this study is to explore whether the herbal blend can impact cardiovascular health and stress levels. Chronic stress is a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and traditional Chinese herbs have been historically used to alleviate stress. This research seeks to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern scientific understanding by conducting a structured investigation into the potential health benefits of these herbs. Additionally, the study aims to establish a baseline for overall health and cardiovascular risk factors and lay the groundwork for future clinical trials.
What are you trying to prove with the study?
The study aims to prove several key points:
1) The herbal blend, consisting of Gojiberry, Astragalus, Reishi, and Jiaogulan, can have a positive impact on cardiovascular health
2) The herbal blend can effectively reduce stress levels, both subjectively (through self-reported questionnaires) and objectively (by measuring inflammatory markers associated with stress).
3) These herbs have adaptogenic (balancing) effects that can be beneficial to various cadiovascular issues.
4) The study intends to provide a foundation for future double-blind, placebo-controlled trials to further validate these findings and potentially develop herbal solutions to help those living with the cardiovascular problems that are plaguing society today.
Overall, the study seeks to bridge traditional herbal knowledge with modern healthcare practices to explore all potentials that promote cardiovascular health while reducing stress.
The ultimate goal is advancing our understanding of the valuable role of herbs in the healthcare of the future.
Abstract:
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality in the US and most of the world, often exacerbated by chronic stress. Traditional Chinese Medicine has long recognized the potential of certain herbs in reducing stress and promoting overall well-being. This 90-day case study aims to explore the effects of a herbal blend, consisting of Gojiberry (Lycium Barbarum), Astragalus (Astragalus Membranaceus), Reishi (Ganoderma Lucidum), and Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum), on cardiovascular health and stress reduction. The study will monitor changes in heart function and measure stress levels subjectively and objectively, laying the groundwork for future clinical trials.
Introduction:
Cardiovascular diseases remain a major global health concern, with chronic stress being a recognized risk factor for their development and progression. Herbal remedies from Traditional Chinese Medicine have been used for centuries to alleviate stress and promote overall well-being. This case study seeks to investigate the potential of a blend of four highly researched, stress-reducing herbs to enhance cardiovascular health and reduce stress levels. The four herbs selected for this study, individually backed by research, have shown promising effects in vitro, animal trials, and small-scale human trials, warranting further investigation.
Study Objectives:
1. Monitor changes in stress levels & heart function over a 90-day period using cardiac biomarkers through scans and blood work.
2. Measure subjective stress levels with self-reported questionnaires.
3. Assess daily heart patterns by documenting vital signs daily (BP & HR)
4. Establish a connection between adaptogen herb consumption & cardiovascular risk factors.
5. Lay the groundwork for larger double-blind, placebo-controlled trials on the adaptogenic effects of the herbal blend.
Study Design:
This case study will be conducted over 90 days, during which the participant will adhere to a protocol that includes prerequisite blood test, the daily consumption of the herbal blend, regular recording of vitals & post study blood test for comparison. The participant will undergo the following assessments:
1. Baseline Assessment: Prior to the study, a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health will be conducted, including blood work measuring inflammatory markers like High sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), Myeloperoxidase (MPO), Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), cholesterol lipid panel, homocysteine, and other applicable stress-related biomarkers.
2. Herbal tincture Administration: The participant will consume the herbal tincture twice daily morning and night throughout the study period at a concentration equally 2g of herb per day. (Equal parts Goji, Reishi, Astragalus, Jiaogulan)
3. Daily Monitoring: Participants agree to keep a notebook to hand in at the end of the study to record daily Heart Rate, blood pressure, blood sugar (if applicable) & heart rate variability (HRV) to monitor any trends in heart function throughout the 90 days.
4. Stress Assessment: Subjective stress levels will be assessed through surveys, before the case study and at 30, 60 & 90 day intervals. More objective stress levels will be determined by blood work at the end of the study.
5. Bi-Weekly Zoom Calls: Bi-weekly video calls will be conducted to discuss any notable incidents, observations, or issues encountered during the study. The participant agrees to reach out to research team for any case of time conflicts & expected to reschedule missed check ins.
Data Analysis:
Analysis will be performed by a group of individuals with different specialties within health ranging from MDs, DCs, Herbalists & Health Coaches to evaluate the reported measurements in heart function and stress levels after the 90-day period. During the case study bi-weekly zoom meeting reports will be used to share any notable incidents or observations through out the study period. All information will be documented & analyzed by peers to identify any flaws or inconsistencies within the study group.
Conclusion:
This 90-day case study aims to explore the potential of a herbal blend, consisting of Gojiberry, Astragalus, Reishi, and Jiaogulan, in improving cardiovascular health and reducing stress levels. The research team (comprising of herbalists, health coaches, and holistically minded researchers & Doctors) is committed to laying the groundwork for future double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. This study represents an important step in investigating the adaptogenic effects of these herbs on cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
Ethical Considerations:
This study will adhere to ethical guidelines and privacy will be strictly maintained throughout the research process. The case study participants are expected to answer honest and true in their reports and questionnaires and speak with their trusted healthcare professional. Thtough out the 90 day period bi-weekly zoom calls will take place for wellness checks. The participants of the case study will share there medical records with the research team that will remain anonymous unless participant expressly agrees to publicly share personal information.
Funding:
This case study is funded by The People’s Herbalist and donors in support of social & herbal research initiatives. The individuals participating in the case study are also supporters by covering out of pocket costs of the prerequisite and post study tests. Our grass root study relies on the commitment of the participants to add to the scientific knowledge in the field of herbal extracts and cardiovascular health.
Conflict of Interest:
The research study is being conducted by Danny Parrott; Owner of Parrott Food & Beverage Corporation & the herbal combination being used in the case study is a product of the company. There is motivation on behalf of the company for the case study to show positive results; for this reason the study will be conducted with transparency and objective measurements that can be confirmed by each participant & their healthcare provider. The results will additionally be reviewed by associates & Doctors in the fields of research, healthcare, herbalism & other holistic specialties.
