Effect of Myristica fragrans on Lipid Profile in Experimentally Induced Hyperlipidemia in Rabbits

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract from fruit of Myristica fragrans (MF) on lipid profile and lipid peroxidation in rabbits. Materials and Methods: The experiment was conducted on four groups of rabbits with six animals in each group. Group I received standard pellet diet, Group II aqueous extract of MF only, Group III received high fat diet (HFD), Group IV received HFD supplemented with MF. After 14 weeks of the experimental period, animals were fasted overnight and blood was taken for estimation of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density cholesterol (HDL-C) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Results: MF significantly lowered the TC, TG and MDA levels in Group II rabbits as compared to Group I. In rabbits fed on HFD, MDA and TC were significantly increased. However, in rabbits of Group IV MF supplementation led to increase in levels of HDL-C but plasma MDA and TC were reduced as compared to Group III. Conclusion: This study suggests that some active ingredient in MF may have an antioxidant action which can protect against cardiovascular diseases by altering lipid profile.