Cardiovascular Evaluations of a Mixed Extract of Salvia Miltiorrhiza Bunge and Paeonia Lactiflora Pall. (USCP-GVH-014): A 12 Weeks Clinical Perspective

Abstract

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge and Paeonia lactiflora Pall. are traditionally used to manage cardiovascular health. However, clinical evidence evaluating standardized extracts for specific cardiovascular benefits is still evolving. This study aimed to evaluate its efficacy and safety of a mixed extract of S. miltiorrhiza Bunge and P. lactiflora Pall. (USCP-GVH-014) for improving cardiovascular function in adults with early-stage vascular health decline. This 12-week, single-center, single-arm, prospective exploratory clinical trial enrolled 30 adults with at least two risk factors. Participants consumed USCP-GVH-014 (1200 mg/day), and outcomes included systolic blood pressure (SBP), carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), lipid metabolism markers, and inflammatory markers, which were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. USCP-GVH-014 significantly reduced SBP over time (P = .013), particularly at 12 weeks (P = .007). Total cholesterol significantly decreased at 6 weeks (P = .035), though the effect was not sustained at 12 weeks. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol demonstrated a significant overall reduction (P = .031), but post-hoc comparisons did not confirm the significance between specific time points. CIMT significantly decreased after 12 weeks (P < .001). Additionally, improvements were observed in mean arterial pressure (P = .008), pulse pressure (P = .04), heart rate (P = .013), and right pulse wave velocity (P = .043). No serious adverse events related to the product were reported. USCP-GVH-014 may enhance vascular health by lowering SBP, reducing CIMT, and modulating lipid metabolism, highlighting its potential as a functional ingredient for cardiovascular health support.