Therapeutic Potential of Ethanolic Cassia fistula Seed Extract in Modulating Lipid Profile and Oxidative Stress in High-Fat Diet-InducedHyperlipidaemic Rats

Introduction: Chronic hyperlipidemia is a prevalent global health issue that significantly impacts mortality and morbidity rates, often linked to cardiovascular disease. The present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of ethanolic Cassia fistula seed extract in modulating lipid profile and oxidative stress in high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemic rats. This study explores the potential of Cassia fistula seeds to lower high lipid levels induced by a high-fat diet in rats. It further aims to evaluate their role in enhancing lipid metabolism, minimizing oxidative stress, and normalizing biochemical markers. Materials and Methods: The antihyperlipidemic activity of Cassia fistula seeds was assessed in high-fat-fed rats over 28 days via oral administration. Two groups received different doses of Cassia fistula extract (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg), while a third group was administered the standard drug Rosuvastatin (5 mg/kg each). The clinical markers of hyperlipidemia, including TC, TG, LDL-C, and HDL-C, are commonly used to assess cardiovascular risk and monitor the effectiveness of lipidlowering therapies. Throughout the treatment period, various parameters, including body weight, body weight gain, food efficiency ratio, body mass index, heart weight, heart weight: body weight ratio, liver weight, relative liver weight, plasma lipid profile, hepatic total cholesterol, hepatic triglycerides, and activity levels, were carefully monitored and assessed. Results: The present study showed that the ethanolic extract of Cassia fistula seeds significantly reduced anthropometric parameters and organ index and improved plasma lipid profile, antioxidant parameters, and oxidative stress compared to the high-fat diet (HFD) group. Similarly, rosuvastatin administration led to significant improvements in these parameters compared with the HFD group. Discussion: The study on Cassia fistula seeds showed significant antihyperlipidemic effects in rats, reducing serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, LDL, and VLDL levels while increasing HDL levels. The ethanolic extract enhanced antioxidant defenses by boosting enzyme activities like superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, thus protecting against oxidative damage. The histopathological evaluations revealed enhanced liver and heart tissue integrity and decreased lipid accumulation. conclusion: The study indicates that Cassia fistula seeds, when taken at doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg, provide a natural and effective method for managing hyperlipidemia. Seeds are a promising herbal intervention due to their ability to improve lipid profiles, enhance antioxidant defenses, and reduce histopathological damage. Conclusion: The study indicates that Cassia fistula seeds, when taken at doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg, provide a natural and effective method for managing hyperlipidemia. The seeds are a promising herbal intervention due to their ability to improve lipid profiles, enhance antioxidant defenses, and reduce histopathological damage.