Evaluation of the efficacy of the combination of Citrus aurantium, Cistus creticus and Olea europaea leaf extract on the lipid profiles of individuals with marginally elevated lipid levels

Abstract

Dyslipidemia includes a large range of lipid abnormalities involving increased levels of total cholesterol (TC), low‑density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides (TGs), and/or decreased levels of high‑density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Individuals with marginally elevated fasting levels of cholesterol in laboratory tests may need an alternative therapeutic approach. Bitter orange, rock‑rose and olive leaf extracts have been highlighted for their antioxidant and lipid lowering properties in numerous studies. The aim of the present observational study was to evaluate the potential synergistic effects of a standardized food supplement, rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, containing a blend of Citrus aurantium, Olea europaea leaf and Cistus creticus extracts, chromium and vitamin B complex, on lowering the cardiovascular risk in individuals with mild dyslipidemia (TC, 190‑290 mg/dl; TG, >150 mg/dl). Following 12 weeks of treatment, a statistically significant decrease in TG levels and an increase in HDL levels was recorded. On the whole, the findings presented herein support a significant decrease in TG levels, further promoting the evaluation of this supplement in a larger study population.