Hypolipidemic and Vasoprotective Potential of Caralluma edulis: A Histological and Biochemical Study

Caralluma edulis (Apocynaceae) is well known for its medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hypoglycemic activities, and has been used as a valuable remedy in various cultures. This scientific study aimed to validate the efficacy of C. edulis in lowering lipid profiles using two hyperlipidemic animal models: lipofundin-induced rabbits and fructose-induced rats. Lipofundin was administered intravenously at 2 mL/kg for 23 days, while fructose (25% w/v) was given for 28 consecutive days by dissolving it in drinking water to induce dyslipidemia and vascular dysfunction. The hydroalcoholic extract of C. edulis was orally administered (250 and 500 mg/kg) to experimental groups, while atorvastatin (10 mg/kg p.o.) was given only to the standard control group. Blood samples were collected to assess various biochemical parameters. Furthermore, histological examinations of liver and thoracic aorta tissues from fructose-fed rats were conducted, along with an evaluation of their vasorelaxant properties. The hydro-methanolic extract of C. edulis demonstrated dose-dependent hypolipidemic effects, significantly reducing serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins at a dose of 500 mg/kg in both models, comparable to atorvastatin. Additionally, the hydroalcoholic extract exhibited significant endothelium-dependent vasorelaxant activity and hepatoprotective effects in fructose-fed rats. C. edulis also displayed antioxidant potential through free radical scavenging activity. These findings suggest that C. edulis possesses hypolipidemic and vasoprotective properties, likely attributed to its active pharmacological constituents, supporting its traditional use.