Inflammatory Responses in Myocardial Infarction and its Therapeutic Drugs

Myocardial infarction (MI), more commonly known as a heart attack in layman’s terms, is most frequently brought on by a reduction or cessation of blood flow to a section of the heart, which results in the necrosis of heart muscle. This typically happens because of blood in the epicardial artery, which in turn induces a severe inflammatory response that is characterized by leukocyte infiltration of the infarcted heart. Although traditional drugs are commonly used in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD), their use has declined due to concerns about potential long-term negative effects. The importance of medicinal plant products in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease has reignited research interest, and these products are now being investigated as potential pharmacological alternatives. The main processes that induce myocardial damage after a heart attack and reperfusion are increased levels of free radicals and oxidative stress. As a result, disease-treatment efforts usually focus on decreasing free radicals or increasing antioxidant defenses. Bioactive natural compounds have previously been shown to help prevent myocardial infarction (MI) by maintaining the heart muscle. These chemicals are abundant in fruits and vegetables, and if ingested on a regular basis, they may lessen the risk of MI. Although the benefits of a balanced diet are widely established, several scientific research have investigated the possibility of MI being avoided and treated using just natural substances. This chapter highlights the outcomes of natural product therapy for myocardial infarction and cardiovascular disease employing various phytochemicals, with a focus on their putative molecular mechanisms of action.