Effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract on stressed rabbit plasma cholesterol status

Abstract

Hibiscus sabdariffa aqueous extract has been shown to have antioxidant and lipid lowering effects in animal  studies. This study is aimed at investigating the effects of the aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx on  the lipid profile of rabbits subjected to stress. The rabbits were stressed by suspension for 2 minutes, twice daily, for 15 days. After 10 days of stress, there was significant increase in plasma LDL-cholesterol but a decrease in plasma HDL-cholesterol and total cholesterol when compared to the control. Administration of extract significantly (P < 0.05) reduced LDLcholesterol and total cholesterol in stressed rabbits relative to control and stressed group and an increased HDL-cholesterol level (P < 0.05) relative to stressed group only. After 15 days, similar results were obtained. However, there was no significant difference in HDL-cholesterol levels between stressed and stressed plus extract-treated rabbits. Conclusion: These data suggest that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract may be protective against stressed-induced LDL-cholesterol increase.