Effect of Solvent Extracts of Tephrosia vogelii Leaves and Stem on Lipid Profile of Poloxamer 407-Induced Hyperlipidemic Rats

Abstract Introduction  There are claims by traditional medicine practitioners in Nigeria and valuable scientific reports that the leaves of Tephrosia vogelii (TV) hook are used for the treatment of various diseases; however, there is paucity of information on it used in the management of cardiovascular complications despite the rich presence of phytochemicals. This study aimed at investigating effects of solvents extracts of TV leaves and stem on lipid profile of poloxamer 407-induced hyperlipidemic rats. Materials and Methods  Varying doses of the solvent extracts (water, ethanol, and acetic acid) of plant material were administered to experimental animals (Albino Wistar rats) induced with hyperlipidemia using poloxamer 407 (P-407). Results  The results of the phytochemical screening of leaves and stem revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, phlobatannins, and flavonoids in powdered sample of leaves and stem of TV. Aqueous extract of the leaves had the highest yield (18.21 ± 1.12%), while acetic acid extract of stem had the lowest yield (7.21 ± 1.21%). The cholesterol and triacylglycerol level of rats induced with P-407 was significantly ( p ≤0.05) higher than normal rats. This study showed that aqueous extract at 50mg/kg body weight significantly (p≤0.05) lower cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, very low-density lipoprotein, and triacylglycerol levels. Indices of cardiovascular function atherogenic coefficient, atherogenic index, coronary risk index, and cardioprotective index were positively modulated by the treatment. Conclusion  The study indicated that the aqueous leaves extract of TV possesses antihyperlipidemic effects and may explains why it has been found to be useful in the management of cardiovascular diseases by traditional medicine practitioners.