Atherosclerosis (AS) is a common pathological basis for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Chinese ethnomedicine, with its distinct theoretical frameworks and abundant resources, shows unique potential in managing AS. This review systematically synthesizes the pathogenesis of AS and corresponding therapeutic strategies from various Chinese ethnomedical systems, revealing that "physiological imbalance" serves as a common underlying mechanism. We detail the mechanisms of these ethnomedicines, including improving the composition of gut microbiota, regulating lipid metabolism, mitigating oxidative stress, suppressing inflammation and modulating vascular homeostasis. Available clinical evidence is critically evaluated. Key challenges are discussed, such as the need for theoretical modernization, deeper mechanistic studies, and more rigorous clinical validation. Promising future research directions are also outlined.
| 科 Family | 属数 Number of genus | 种数 Number of species | 占总种数比例 Percentage of total species (%) | 属 Genus | 种数 Number of species | 占总种数比例 Percentage of total species (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 鹅膏菌科Amanitaceae | 2 | 11 | 5.26 | 鹅膏菌属 Amanita | 10 | 4.78 |
| 小菇科 Mycenaceae | 2 | 12 | 5.74 | 丝盖伞属 Inocybe | 5 | 2.39 |
| 多孔菌科 Polyporaceae | 8 | 14 | 6.70 | 蜡蘑属 Laccaria | 5 | 2.39 |
| 红菇科 Russulaceae | 3 | 23 | 11.00 | 小皮伞属 Marasmius | 6 | 2.87 |
| 小菇属 Mycena | 11 | 5.26 | ||||
| 光柄菇属 Pluteus | 5 | 2.39 | ||||
| 红菇属 Russula | 17 | 8.13 | ||||
| 栓菌属 Trametes | 5 | 2.39 |