Vitis labruscana Bailey leaf extract improves vascular function markers including platelet aggregation: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Platelet aggregation plays a key role in thrombosis, a major contributor to CVD. Previous animal studies suggest that Vitis labruscana Bailey leaf extract (HP-01) may have cardioprotective and antithrombotic effects. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of HP-01 supplementation on blood flow-related parameters—such as platelet aggregation (closure time), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and systolic blood pressure (SBP)—in individuals with CVD risk factors. Study design: We conducted a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 80 participants with CVD risk factors. Methods: Study participants were recruited from the Clinical Trial Center for Functional Foods at Jeonbuk National University Hospital. The participants were randomly assigned to receive HP-01 (1800 mg/day) or a placebo taken thrice for 12 weeks. The endpoints were changes in platelet aggregation, peripheral arterial tonometry index, blood pressure, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and lipid profile. Results: After 12 weeks of supplementation with HP-01, platelet aggregation by closure time was significantly decreased compared with placebo group (122.48±22.94 s to 137.97±51.29 s, p = 0.0252). Moreover, a significant increase of aPTT (31.64±2.64 s to 31.78±2.55 s, p = 0.0402) and a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (127.27±10.12 mmHg to 122.27±11.58 mmHg, p = 0.0398) were observed in the HP-01 group compared with the placebo group. No serious adverse reactions were observed in either group. Conclusions: These findings suggest that HP-01 supplementation may contribute to cardiovascular health by improving hemostatic function and lowering blood pressure in individuals with CVD risk factors.