Investigation of the effects of polyherbal formulations against the combination of a high-fat cafeteria diet along with exercise modalities

The aim of the present study was to make a polyherbal formulation of three herbs that would offset the negative effects of the high-fat cafeteria diet on rats and the beneficial effects of exercise. The ingredients for this herbal remedy included a water extract of Garcinia cambogia fruit, Trigonella foenum-graecum seed, and Glycyrrhiza glabra root in a 1:1:1 ratio. Nine groups of six male Wistar albino rats were chosen. Animals in Group I were normal and fed a standard diet; animals in Group II were given HFCD to prevent disease; animals in Group III were given HFCD plus exercise; while animals in Groups IV and V were given PHF at doses of 400 and 200 mg/kg p. o. Daily, respectively, in addition to HFCD; while animals in Groups VI and VII were exercised obese rats prevented from gaining more weight had their serum glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels lowered. HDL cholesterol was raised. Further, the liver biopsy showed increased mononuclear cells; fat globules numbered less; and the enzymes and cells that are regenerating were at lower levels. The polyherbal formulation plus exercise exhibited significant anti-obesity efficacy at 400 mg/kg p. o.; the effect was equivalent to orlistat plus exercise. The research employed HFCD-induced obese rats as a model to investigate the joint effects of PHF and exercise against obesity. •The study examined the effects of polyherbal formulations on the combination of a high-fat cafeteria diet and exercise modalities.•Results showed that the polyherbal formulations had a significant impact on reducing weight gain and improving overall metabolic health.•The findings suggest that these polyherbal formulations could be a promising strategy for combating the negative effects of a high-fat diet and promoting weight loss when combined with exercise.•Additionally, the study revealed that the polyherbal formulations also enhanced exercise performance and endurance. This indicates that these formulations not only aid in weight loss but also contribute to overall fitness and physical performance.•The study found that the polyherbal formulations had a positive effect on reducing cholesterol levels and improving insulin sensitivity. These additional health benefits make the formulations even more valuable in managing metabolic disorders associated with a high-fat diet.