Effect of olive leaf, mulberry leaf and fenugreek seed extract on plasma cholesterols and fatty streaks at aorta wall on hypercholestrolemic rabbit

Abstract

Introduction: dyslipidemia is one of the most important risk factors that cause arteriosclerosis in the coronary artery. The aim of this study was to investigate olive and mulberry leaf , fenugreek seed– dyethylether extract on plasma lipid levels and arteriosclerosis plaques. Materials & Methods: 45 white male rabbits divided into nine groups of five at 22 ±1C.The first and second group were given regular and high cholesterol (%1) diet respectively. The seven remaining groups were given cholesterol diet as well as olive and mulberry leaf and fenugreek seed extract (in the form of single and compound) during 60 days. Before and after two months plasma lipid levels and direct blood pressure were measured, and also the wall of aorta was studied from view point of presence and absence of arteriosclerosis plaques). Findings: Results showed that olive and mulberry leaf extract significantly decreased total cholesterol and LDL, but fenugreek seed extract had no effect. However, fenugreek seed extract together with olive and mulberry leaf extract potentate their effects on the total cholesterol and LDL. Olive leaf extract enhanced HDL-c and decreased triglycerid, but mulberry leaf and fenugreek seed extract had no effect. Also olive and mulberry leaf seed extract prevented rapid from arteriosclerosis plaques and their effects all together was a little potent. None of the extracts influenced the normal blood pressure. Conclusion: According to the results adjunct use of olive and mulberry leaf extract has hypocholesterolemic and antiatherosclerosis properties, but no effect on the normal blood pressure.