Arterial disease, leading to heart attacks and strokes, is a significant cause of death and disability in our communities. This is despite all the research advances and the billions of dollars spent by drug companies and universities. It is certainly an issue where prevention is better than cure. The famous Framingham Heart Study was the first to define clearly the risk factors for arterial disease, factors that could be targeted to help prevent it. As a result, there is currently a big focus in conventional medicine on drugs that lower cholesterol and blood pressure. But as we have read and seen, these issues are very complex and controversial. In this presentation the key role of vulnerable plaque in precipitating a hard cardiovascular event is emphasised. The potential role of herbs in stabilising plaque and preventing its rupture is discussed, drawing on the latest clinical evidence. In particular some intriguing clinical research on gotu kola will be presented together with data for other key herbs such as Ginkgo biloba.
