Modulation of Renin-Angiotensin System by Aqueous Extract of Large Cardamom: In vitro and in silico Studies

Hypertension is a growing public health concern due to its high prevalence all around the globe. Spices and herbs are known to possess antihypertensive activities. Hence, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb family Zingiberaceae) in hypertension using in-vitro and in-silico methods. In our in vitro studies, the aqueous extract of large cardamom exhibited concentration-dependent angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory and angiotensin II antagonistic activity. In silico molecular docking study showed that among the six constituents, protocatechuic acid and alpinetin possessed high-affinity binding with the target site than the standard used. Our results show evidence that aqueous extract of large cardamom can improve vascular function. Further experimental studies are required to better elucidate the possible mechanisms behind the antihypertensive activity of large cardamom.