Hypolipidemic effect of lime (Citrus aurantifolia) fruit ethanol extract on total cholesterol levels in rats

High cholesterol levels are a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Statins are commonly used to reduce total cholesterol levels; however, long-term use can lead to adverse effects such as myalgia, an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and liver damage. As a result, there is a growing need for research into natural medicines for cholesterol management. Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is rich in flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce cholesterol by inhibiting the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, a mechanism similar to that of statins. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of lime fruit ethanol extract on total cholesterol levels in male Wistar strain rats induced with a high-fat diet and PTU. This study was conducted as a laboratory experiment using a post-test control group design. Male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: a normal control group, a negative control group (high-fat diet + PTU), a positive control group (simvastatin), and three test groups (lime fruit ethanol extract 0.875, 1.75, and 3.5 g/kg BW). The high-fat diet and PTU were induced for 14 days, and total cholesterol levels were determined using the enzymatic colorimetric method (CHOD/PAP) at the end. The administration of lime fruit ethanol extract at a dose of 0.875 g/kgBW significantly reduced total cholesterol compared to the negative control group (p=0.013), with no significant difference from the normal group (p=0.965). However, higher doses of 1.75 and 3.5 g/kg BW caused mortality in the test groups. These findings suggest that lime fruit ethanol extract effectively reduces total cholesterol levels at a dose of 0.875 g/kg BW. Further research is needed to determine the optimal dose and toxicity profile of lime fruit ethanol extract for hyperlipidemia therapy.