Exploring the Anti-hyperlipidemic Potential of Rivea hypocrateriformis (Desr) Leaf Extracts: A Study on Triton-induced Hyperlipidemia Rat Model and Oxidative Stress

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease are greatly affected by hyperlipidemia, characterized by elevated blood lipid levels. The potential adverse effects of conventional pharmacological interventions have prompted the exploration of natural drugs for combinatorial therapy of hyperlipidemia management. Rivea hypocrateriformis (Desr), a plant species with traditional medicinal use, has shown potential anti-hyperlipidemic effects in animal models. Materials and Methods: The study evaluated chloroform (HEC) and ethanol (HEE) extracts of R. hypocrateriformis (Desr) in Triton-induced hyperlipidemia in Sprague Dawley rat model at 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight. Parameters such as body weight, lipid levels, lipid parameters, and antioxidant enzymes were assessed. Results and Discussion: There was an increase in total cholesterol and triglycerides in the triton-induced group and a decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Reduced total cholesterol and triglyceride levels and increased HDL were observed with treatment with HEC and HEE extracts. It was also found that the extracts significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) levels, suggesting a potential reduction in atherosclerosis risks. The atherogenicity index was significantly decreased in the treatment groups, supporting their anti-atherosclerotic potential. Furthermore, the extracts enhanced antioxidant defenses, reducing oxidative stress. Histopathology of liver tissue revealed the potency of extracts in control of tissue loss, lymphocyte infiltration, and fatty accumulation by triton induction. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the potential of R. hypocrateriformis (Desr) extracts as a natural therapeutic agent for hyperlipidemia management. The extracts exhibited anti-hyperlipidemic and antioxidant effects, offering a multifaceted approach to combat hyperlipidemia and related complications. Future research should focus on identifying bioactive compounds, elucidating underlying mechanisms, and conducting clinical trials for human validation. R. hypocrateriformis (Desr) presents a promising area for drug development and nutraceutical research, with the potential to improve hyperlipidemia management and cardiovascular health.