Alteration of Plasma Lipid Profiles and Atherogenic Indices by Stachytarpheta jamaicensis L. (Vahl)

The effects of Stachytarpheta jamaicensis tea on the plasma lipid profile and atherogenic indices were investigated in rabbits. The test group received daily, by intra-gastric gavages, 15mg/kg of aqueous extract. The treatment led to significant decreases (p<0.05) in plasma levels of total, LDL- and VLDL-cholesterol and triglycerides, and increase (p<0.05) in plasma HDL cholesterol level. It also produced significant (p<0.05) decreases in the atherogenic indices; cardiac risk ratio, atherogenic coefficient and atherogenic index of plasma. These results suggest the use of Stachytarpheta jamaicensis tea in the management of dyslipidemia whether primary or secondary to obesity, diabetes mellitus and hypertension, and by extension, the reduction of the risk of cardiovascular diseases