Abstract

Asaolu, Modupe Fisayo*, Asaolu, Samuel Sunday, Oyeyemi Ajibade Olugbenga and Aluko and Bukola Tola

In this study, our objective was to investigate the possible hypolipemic effect of Persea americana (PA) on hypercholestrolemic rats. Acute administration of cholesterol resulted in the elevation of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDLC) and reduction in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC). However, treatment with various doses of the methanolic extract of the seeds of Persea americana caused a significant reduction in the levels of TC, TG, LDLC and VLDLC while the levels of HDLC increased significantly. These effects were dose dependent as marked changes were observed at the highest concentration (300mg/kg) of the methanolic extract of Persea americana seeds. It was concluded that Persea americana seeds showed an hypolipemic effect and may serve as possible alternative treatment for hyperlipemia and hypertension.