This comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) supplementation on cardiovascular disease risk factors. Relevant research was discovered via PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CENTRAL, and EMBASE up to June 2024. The assessment of study quality was conducted using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Thirteen trials, with interventions ranging from 4 to 12 weeks and involving 521 participants, demonstrated significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (Standardized Mean Difference [SMD] = − 0.67; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] − 1.01, − 0.32; P < 0.001), C-reactive protein (CRP) (SMD = − 0.51; 95% CI − 0.96, − 0.05; P = 0.028), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) (SMD = − 0.74; 95% CI − 1.16, − 0.32; P < 0.001), and a marginally significant effect on fasting blood sugar (FBS) (SMD = − 0.57; 95% CI − 1.16, 0.02; P = 0.057). Subgroup analyses revealed that sesame supplementation significantly reduced CRP and malondialdehyde (MDA) in populations without chronic diseases, while total cholesterol (TC) and MDA were reduced in those with chronic diseases. MDA was significantly reduced in females, especially those aged 50 or older. At dosages of 10 g per day or less, CRP, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and TC showed significant improvements. Meta-regression highlighted a significant dose-dependent reduction in TC levels at 10 g/day, and a significant duration-dependent decrease in TG levels at 8 weeks of supplementation. Sesame supplementation demonstrates potential benefits in improving glycemic control, inflammatory markers, and lipid profiles, making it a promising adjunct therapy for reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors.

Introduction Heart diseases constitute a significant global public health concern. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are characterised by disruptions in blood circulation and are notably prevalent among adults exposed to Westernised diets. Ginseng, a medicinal plant, has been recognised for its healing properties and has a history of use spanning thousands of years. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy of ginseng in modifying risk factors for CVD, including lipid profiles, glycaemic control, anthropometric indices, inflammation indicators, blood pressure, oxidative stress, liver function tests, adipokines and heart rate among individuals aged 18 and above, encompassing both genders. Methods and analysis We will conduct an electronic search for articles published from inception to September 2023 using a predefined search strategy in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CENTRAL and EMBASE. Our search will focus exclusively on randomised controlled clinical trials involving both healthy and unhealthy participants. The process of reviewing articles, extracting pertinent information and assessing the quality of studies using the Cochrane risk of bias tool will be carried out independently by two reviewers. Any discrepancies will be resolved through discussion with a third party. If a sufficient number of eligible studies are identified, a meta-analysis will be conducted using these outcomes. Ethics and dissemination This study serves as the procedural framework for a comprehensive examination and does not require ethical approval. Additionally, the study adhered to the guidelines outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Golestan University of Medical Sciences (IR.GOUMS.REC.1402.298). PROSPERO registration number CRD42023465688.