Blood Cholesterol Lowering Effect of Adenanthera Pavonina Seed Extract on Atherogenic Diet Induced Hyperlipidemia Rats

The effect of Adenanthera pavonina (AP) seed extract on the blood cholesterol level of atherogenic diet rats was evaluated. Twelve adult male Wistar rats divided into 3 groups of 4 animals each were used and were treated orally with normal saline (Control group), atherogenic diet (Positive control) and 200mg/kg of AP seed extract (treatment) over a 4-week period. The present study was undertaken to assess body weight, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL). They were significantly lower in the extract treated groups compared to the control group. Phytochemical screening showed that the extract contained cardiac glycosides, tannins, saponins, alkaloids and flavonoids. Cyanogentic glycosides and anthraquinones were absent. Histopathological examination showed that the extract did not cause any significant lesion changes in the liver, kidney and even the testes. The study showed that Adenanthera pavonina (AP) seed extract have the potential to cause a blood cholesterol lowering effect. The serum biochemistry changes may suggest that the extract has a tonic effect on the kidneys and the liver and these organs play central role in drug metabolism. Absence of significant lesion in the kidney, liver and testes may indicate that the plant is safe for medicinal use.