Hypolipidemic effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna): An in vitro study

Abstract

Background: High cholesterol is the sixth-highest risk factor for death in the globe. Herbal medications regularly complement modern medical care, especially by providing safe, well-tolerated therapies for chronic conditions. Aims and Objectives: The present study was undertaken to evaluate and compare the cholesterol-lowering effects of Terminalia arjuna bark and Bacopa monnieri leaves (Brahmi) extract in human blood samples diagnosed with hyperlipidemia. Materials and Methods: Herbal extract of arjuna (T. arjuna) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [WS]) in distilled water (d/w) and cow’s urine (c/u) [A1, A2, D1, and D2] was taken and added to the pooled serum samples collected aseptically and a kinetic study was performed with it. Cholesterol standard was obtained from Erba Chem Transasia kit (Trinder’s method, endpoint) with a standard cutoff value of 200 mg/dL. Results: Baseline reading of total cholesterol in all samples was 189 mg/dL. After 2 h, the total cholesterol reading in A1 was 159 mg/dL, 157, 162, and 160 mg/dL in A2, D1, and D2, respectively. After 4 h, the total cholesterol reading in A1 was 149 mg/dL, 148, 151, and 149 mg/dL in A2, D1, and D2, respectively. After 6 h, the total cholesterol reading in A1 was 109 mg/dL, 104, 112, and 110 mg/dL in A2, D1, and D2, respectively. Conclusion: From the findings of the present study, it was found that aqueous extract of Ashwagandha (WS) and Arjuna (T. arjuna) was effective in reducing total cholesterol levels. It can be considered a potential therapeutic alternative in patients with hyperlipidemia but warrants further clinical studies.