The effect of Cistus incanus herbal tea supplementation on oxidative stress markers and lipid profile in healthy adults

BACKGROUND: Oxidative stress and dyslipidemia play a critical role in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Regular intake of polyphenol-rich diets is associated with a reduced risk of CVDs. METHODS: The present study was a pilot study with 24 healthy volunteers and was designed to determine if a 12-week administration of Cistus incanus herbal tea, containing phenolic acids and flavonoids, reduces cardiovascular risk factors including oxidative stress and dyslipidemia in healthy adults. Phenolic compounds profile and antibacterial activity of Cistus incanus infusion were also measured. RESULTS: Herbal infusion led to improvement in lipid profile by increase (Δ4%, p = 0.033) high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration and decrease triglyceride (Δ14%, p = 0.013) concentrations. In addition, the Cistus incanus diet was associated with decreased serum concentrations of malondialdehyde (Δ16%, p < 0.01) and advanced oxidation protein products (Δ18%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Cistus incanus administration decreases cardiovascular risk factors including oxidative stress and dyslipidemia and this action supports the idea of using Cistus incanus tea on a daily basis as an effective dietary component for prevention of atherosclerotic CVD.