Project Materials

ANTILIPIDEMIC EFFECT OF WATER (H20) EXTRACT OF DESMODIUM VELUTINUM LEAVES ON ALBINO WISTAR RATS

ABSTRACT

This study looked at the antilipidemic activity of aqueous extracts from Desmodium velutinum leaves in albino wistar rats. The phytochemical study of the leaf extract revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids, soluble carbohydrates, flavonoids, reducing sugar, steroids, cyanide, and terpenoids. The mice were given recognised medicines (atorvastatin 2ml). There were significant reductions in HDL 13.001.41 mg/dl, LDL 1.200.14 mg/dl, and triglyceride 39.000.14 mg/dl when compared to Desmodium velutinum water extract (0.5ml). When provided, it was observed to dramatically lower lipid plasma levels of LDL 1.900.00 mg/dl, triglycerides 50.000.00 mg/dl, and increase HDL 25.000.00 mg/dl, which is good cholesterol. When compared to the group that received atorvastatin, the aqueous extract of Desmodium velutinum leaf may help to normalise plasma cholesterol levels. The phytochemical investigation revealed that the interaction of various complexes, molecules, and other constituents has a significant impact on the leaf’s biological activity. This investigation suggested that the aqueous extract of D.velutinum leaf had both a hypolipidemic and antilipidemic impact.

Chapter one

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Lipid and lipoprotein abnormalities play a significant influence in the onset and progression of coronary artery disease. Low HDL cholesterol levels have been established as independent coronary risk factors (Rodrigue et al., 2010). High blood cholesterol levels are the cause of circulatory system disorders.

An rise in low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels is concerning for cardiovascular disease, and the risk increases significantly (Harman et al., 2011). Heart disease is becoming increasingly common in emerging countries.

According to medical studies, around 70% of persons over the age of 50 suffer from atherosclerosis. (Sherien, Azza, 2009). A wide variety of synthetic hypolipidemic medicines are available on the market. Long-term usage of these medications results in substantial adverse effects and is pricey.

A medicinal plant is defined as any plant that has a chemical that can be utilised for therapeutic purposes or that serves as a precursor to the manufacture of valuable pharmaceuticals (Sivakumar et al., 2007).

Plants contain a significant number of bioactive phytochemicals, which are responsible for their pharmacological action and are exploited in medication development.

Many medicinal plants have demonstrated antilipidemic properties and usefulness in cardiovascular disorders (Nordestgard et al., 2010; Wang, 1999).

Desmodium velutium, a perennial plant erect or semi-erect shrub or sub-shrub up to 3m tall, is one of these plants that traditional medicine practitioners in Eastern Nigeria frequently employ to treat the ailment. It is abundantly dispersed in subtropical Asia and tropical Africa. (Amowi & Azode, 2012).

Desmodium velutium extracts have long been used to treat several diseases, including aphrodisiacs and headaches. As a result, Desomdium velutium may contain a pharmacologically active substance that can be used to treat aches, pains, and diarrhoea.

In Ghana, native medics combine the root of Desmodium lasincarpum with some hot peppers and use it as an enema to treat blood in urine. In Nigeria’s Eastern States, the plant is commonly known as “Ikeagwuani”.

Onyegbule et al. (2012). In the current study, I examined the antilipidemic activity of a water (H2O) extract of Desmodium velutinum Leaves on albino wistar rats.