Epicatechin is a flavonoid found in foods such as cocoa, green tea, and certain fruits. Recent scientific studies have investigated its cardiovascular effects, including its potential role in supporting vascular health and, by extension, conditions like arteriosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries). Laboratory and preclinical animal studies indicate that epicatechin may improve endothelial function, reduce oxidative stress, and decrease inflammation—all mechanisms implicated in the pathogenesis of arteriosclerosis. Some small human trials have shown that epicatechin-rich cocoa or dark chocolate can transiently improve endothelial function and lower blood pressure, both of which are relevant to arterial health.

However, the evidence is limited in scope and quality. There are no large-scale, long-term randomized controlled trials directly examining epicatechin supplementation as a treatment or preventive measure for arteriosclerosis in humans. Most studies use dietary sources (such as cocoa) rather than isolated epicatechin, and the observed effects are modest and sometimes inconsistent. As such, while there is a mechanistic rationale and some preliminary human data, the current scientific evidence for using epicatechin specifically to support or treat arteriosclerosis is weak and preliminary, justifying a low evidence score.