Centella Asiatica in Older Adults

Effect of Centella Asiatica on Vascular Endothelial Function in Older Adults

The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of a dietary supplement containing centella asiatica on on vascular endothelial function in older adults.

Inclusion Criteria:

● Age 50 through 85, male or female

• Sufficient proficiency in English to understand study purpose and directions
• Willing and able to give informed consent
• Able to follow protocol and attend visits

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of myocardial infarction, known coronary or carotid disease, or heart failure
• History of stroke, Parkinson's disease, dementia, or other major CNS disorders
• History of hepatic disease (e.g. hepatitis, cirrhosis)
• Recent/recurring history of severe life-threatening medical conditions (e.g. cancer, except non-melanoma skin cancers)
• Active major infectious disease (e.g. pneumonia)
• Heavy alcohol use (15 drinks or more per week for men or 8 drinks or more per week for women) or substance use disorder
• Current use of any medication typically used to treat hypertension or lower blood pressure (e.g. beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors)
• Current use of any medication typically used to prevent the coagulation of blood (e.g. warfarin (Coumadin))
• Chronic NSAID use (>3 times a week for more than 3 months)
• Current use of any medication or supplement typically used as a sedative (e.g. zolpidem (Ambien), benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax), valerian root)
• Dietary supplements for improving nitric-oxide synthesis (e.g. L-arginine, L-citrulline)
• Current use of any medication typically used to control hypoglycemia (e.g. biguanides (Metformin))
• Current use of any medication typically used for erectile dysfunction (e.g. sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis))
• Pregnant, nursing, or planning a pregnancy within the next 6 weeks
• Open skin rashes and sores that may interfere with the placement of sensors