Abstract: The invention provides an extract of the Pleurotus genus such as Pleurotus eryngii (DC. et Fr) Quél to prevent and treat hypertension, and enhance cardiovascular health. Further, the invention provides pharmaceutical compositions containing the extract as an active ingredient, in a pharmaceutically or therapeutically acceptable carrier. The invention also provides a method of preventing and treating hypertension by administration of the extract. Further, there is provided a method for preparing the extract and evaluating the extract using in vitro or in vivo tests to ensure antihypertensive activity.

Abstract: An extract from the herb of the family Cynomoriaceae, preferably Cynomorium songaricum Rupr, which is also commonly known as Suo Yang in Chinese Medicine, has been prepared and found to have medicinal properties. The extract is preferably prepared from stems of the plant, and is most preferably extracted with an solvent including butanol, herein abbreviated as “BuSY”. The extract is shown to have efficacy in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and the enhancement of male sexual health in vertebrates. A pharmaceutical preparation of this extract can be formulated with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier to treat erectile dysfunction in host animals. The components of the nutraceutical extract can be combined in differing combinations to enhance and/or improve male sexual health.