Effect of aqueous extract of Allium cepa (Onion) on ethanol-induced dyslipidemia and inflammation in Albino rats

Abstract

Alcohol consumption has increased over the years due to social activities. However, chronic alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for several diseases, including dyslipidemia. This study evaluated the effect of Allium cepa (onion) aqueous extract on ethanol-induced dyslipidemia and inflammation in Albino Rats. Twenty-five rats, weighing 130-180g, were randomly divided into five groups of five. The rats were acclimatized for 14 days with free access to standard feed and water. Group I served as the negative control, while Group II was the positive control, receiving 50% ethanol at a dose of 0.5ml/100g. Groups III to V received 50% ethanol followed by oral administration of 200mg/kg, 400mg/kg, and 600mg/kg of Allium cepa extract, respectively, once daily for 30 days. The rats were then anesthetized with chloroform, and blood samples were collected to analyze C-reactive protein (CRP) and lipid profiles, including triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (T. Chol), and HDL, with LDL calculated using Friedewald's equation. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. There was a significant decrease in CRP (p = 0.000035), T. Chol (P = 0.010), and LDL (P = 0.038) in the treatment groups compared to the positive control group, but there were no significant differences in HDL (P = 0.179) and TG (P = 0.899) across all groups. These findings suggest that Allium cepa extract may ameliorate ethanol-induced dyslipidemia and inflammation. Further studies are recommended.