Hypolipidemic effects of high fat sunflower oil and nigella sativa [Kalonji] on serum lipid profile of albino rats

ABSTRACT

Diet is the main factor affecting serum lipid concentrations. We studied the changes in serum lipid profile by high fat sunflower oil diet. We also documented the effects of Nigella Sativa [Kalonji] on serum lipid profile. Thirty two albino rats were divided into two groups i.e. one control [C] groups and other experimental [E] group having equal number of rats. Study was carried out for twelve weeks. Fasting blood samples were drawn by heart puncture for serum lipid profile under ether anaesthesia. Estimations were done by recommended methods. Statistical methods were done by using student's "t" test. We found decrease in total cholesterol by 9.6%, triglyceride by 4.21%, LDL cholesterol by 12.0% and HDL cholesterol by 10.4%. We concluded from study that polyunsaturated fatty acid in high concentrations [20%] has lipid-lowering effect and Nigella sativa has got HDL cholesterol raising effect, which has anti-atherogenic potential