ABSTRACT
Aims: This study investigated the phytochemical composition of Jatropha tanjorensis leaf and the effect of its methanolic extract on serum lipid profile of albino rats. Study design: Experimental Animal Model. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Osun State University, Osogbo Nigeria, between January and February 2011. Methodology: Twenty four (24) albino rats divided into four groups and weighing between 130 and 150g were used for the study. Group 1 served as the control, Groups 2, 3 and 4 were administered varying concentrations of methanolic leaf extract of Jatropha tanjorensis daily for 14 days. Results: Phytochemical analysis of the extract revealed the presence of terpenoids, saponins, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids and tannins. Measurement of serum lipid profile in rats administered the extract indicate a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the mean values of total lipids, total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol while triglycerides and HDL cholesterol levels were not significantly different from the control. Conclusion: This study suggests that leaf extract of Jatropha tanjorensis posses phytochemical ingredients capable of lowering blood cholesterol level and might be useful in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases caused by hyperlipidemia.