Effect of Aqueous Extract of Tapinanthus brunneus leaves on diet-induced Hypercholesterolemia in Rats

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Hypercholesterolemia is a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases and is closely associated with oxidative stress. Plant-derived bioactive compounds have shown promise in modulating lipid metabolism and antioxidant defense systems.

Objective: This study evaluated the hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of aqueous leaf extract of Tapinanthus brunneus in hypercholesterolemic rats.

Methods: Twenty albino rats were divided into four groups (n = 5): a normal control (standard diet), a high-fat diet (HFD) control, and two treatment groups administered T. brunneus extract (5 and 10 mg/kg body weight) orally for 28 days. Serum lipid parameters and hepatic antioxidant enzymes—superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)—were assessed.

Results: Treatment with T. brunneus significantly (p < 0.05) reduced serum total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides, while elevating HDL-cholesterol compared with HFD controls. Additionally, extract administration significantly enhanced hepatic SOD and CAT activities, indicating improved antioxidant status.

Conclusion: Aqueous leaf extract of Tapinanthus brunneus exhibits significant hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities, suggesting its potential as a complementary therapeutic agent in the management of hypercholesterolemia and associated cardiovascular disorders.