Variations in Echogenicity in Carotid and Femoral Atherosclerotic Plaques with Pycnogenol + Centella Asiatica Supplementation

Abstract

This registry study evaluated echogenicity of carotid–femoral plaques in asymptomatic subjects with increased oxidative stress and risk factors (mild hypertension, hypercholesterolemia). Supplementation with the combination Pycnogenol–CA (centella asiatica) on the echogenicity of plaques was assessed at 6 months (79 subjects). A standard management (SM) plan was used in all subjects (control of risk factors, lifestyle changes); 36 subjects used the supplements +SM; 43 SM only. The groups were comparable. High-resolution ultrasound evaluated echogenicity and plaque structure. Pycnogenol (150 mg/day) and CA (Centellicum, 450 mg/day) were used.

At 6 months, cholesterol was reduced (p < 0.05) in both groups (difference between groups not significant). At 6 months, plasma free radicals were decreased with the supplements (17.64%; p < 0.05; vs <2% in controls). The plaque stability index increased from 11.22;2.3 to 22.4;1.1 (p < 0.05) with the supplements; no significant changes were seen in controls. Plaque echogenicity (% of “whiter” component in images) increased with supplementation from 16.7;1.7% to 34.2;2% (p < 0.05); no variations were observed in controls. The maximum plaque height decreased (p < 0.05) with the supplements. No significant variations were observed in controls. Plaque length was decreased (p < 0.05) in the supplement group with no changes in controls. The number of plaques (carotid, femoral bifurcations) decreased with supplementation; no significant changes were observed in controls. No adverse events, tolerability problems, or variations in routine blood tests were recorded. The combination Pycnogenol–CA appears to improve echogenicity and stability of complex plaques in 6 months.

Keywords

plaques - atherosclerosis - Pycnogenol - Centella asiatica - echogenicity - oxidative stress - cardiovascular events

• References

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