Effects of low molecular weight galactomannans based standardized fenugreek seed extract in subjects with high fat mass: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study

The present investigation evaluated the effects of low molecular weight galactomannans-based standardized fenugreekseeds extract (LMWGAL-TF) on human subjects with high-fat mass for 8-weeks using a prospective, randomized,double-blind, placebo-controlled design. Twenty-four subjects with percent body fat were randomized to ingest acapsule of LMWGAL-TF (500 mg, once a day) or the matching placebo at a 1:1 ratio for 8 weeks. The outcomemeasurements were recorded at baseline, week-4, and week-8 (end of the treatment). The efficacy outcome includedfat mass (absolute, non-fat mass and %) by skinfold thickness method (along with triceps, suprailiac, and abdominal)and bioelectrical impedance analysis method, body weight, body mass index, and abdominal girth. The standardsafety parameters were measured, such as adverse events, vital signs, hematology, and biochemistry. Eight weeksof LMWGAL-TF supplementation showed significant reduction in suprailiac skinfold thickness (v/s baseline) andabdominal skinfold thickness (v/s baseline and v/s placebo), and percent fat mass, (v/s baseline). The LMWGAL-TFsupplementation was found to be safe and well-tolerated. In conclusion, LMWGAL-TF supplementation showedsafety and efficacy in reducing skinfold thickness (abdominal and suprailiac) and percent body fat in subjects with ahigh fat mass

Antidepressant effects of standardized extract of Commiphora mukul Engl. in olfactory bulbectomized rats

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of standardized hydroalcholic extract of Commiphora mukul (HECM) in animal model of chronic stress medicated depression, namely olfactory bulbectomy (OBX) model in rats. Effects of 14-day (subacute) oral pretreatment of HECM (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) were evaluated on depression and stress related parameters on OBX rats. Separate groups for sham control, OBX control and positive controls namely imipramine (20 mg/kg), fluoxetine (30 mg/kg) and desipramine (15 mg/kg) were also maintained. Behavioral and physiological parameters in open field and elevated plus maze were recorded. HECM showed dose-dependent reversal of OBX-induced physiological effects such as reduction of body weight, body temperature, heart rate and serum sodium concentration. HECM also showed reversal effects on OBX induced food intake increase and hyperactivity in open field and elevated plus maze paradigm. In conclusion, HECM demonstrated restorative effects in OBX induced depression model in rats probably due to stress reliving mechanisms.