Metaphorical investigation of aqueous distillate of Cichorium intybus, Foeniculum vulgare and Solanum nigrum along with atorvastatin and orlistat in experimental rodent models of dyslipidaemia and obesity

Background

Arq is a traditional Unani liquid formulation. In this study we explored Arq-Makoh, Arq-Badiyan and Arq-Kasni for their pharmacological potential to alleviate the symptoms of hyperlipidaemia and obesity and develop an amalgamation with modern drugs that have clinically well reported antihyperlipidaemic and antiobesity potential.

Materials and methods

Rats were fed High Fat Diet for 4 weeks. 10 ​ml/kg of each of the three arqs were given alone and along with atorvastatin and orlistat daily for 28 days P.O. During the course of treatment body weight and food intake were carefully observed and after the end of the study, liver weight, heart weight, plasma lipid profile, blood glucose level, insulin and leptin level, serum lipase, lactate dehydrogenase, and antioxidant activity were studied in all treatment groups.

Result

Both Arqs and Atorvastatin and Orlistat significantly reduced body weight, lipid profile in HFD fed rats. Arqs when given along with Atorvastatin and Orlistat produced more significant decrease in the serum lipid profile, serum lipase, atherogenic index, lactate Dehydrogenase and TBARS compared with HFD Control group and elevated the levels of HDL-C and SOD. Apart from antihyperlipidaemic and antiobesity effects the treatment groups showed a significant reduction in elevated fasting blood glucose levels (as a result of HFD model used in the study). The above parameters were further confirmed by histopathological studies.

Conclusion

The present study indicates that Arq-Makoh, Arq-Badiyan and Arq-Kasni has lipid lowering potential and could potentiate the antihyperlipidaemic and antiobesity potential of Atorvastatin and Orlistat.