Combined Effects of Withania Somnifera & Syzgium Cumini on Hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia is a defect of lipid metabolism with high levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein and reduced high-density lipoprotein levels. In Pakistan, the overall prevalence of dyslipidemia was determined to be 96%. Diabetes, obesity and hypertension were discovered as important risk factors. According to WHO, around 80% of population globally believes in botanical drugs and for many years they are using plants extract and their components for managing dyslipidemia. Withania somnifera, popularly known as "Ashwagandha" is rich in phytochemicals and terpenoids. Its root powder has been effective in decreasing total lipids, cholesterol and triglycerides and can increase high-density cholesterol levels. In addition, Syzgium cumini, commonly known as "Jamun". Its seeds possess lipid lowering properties and are able to reduce ratio of total serum cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, serum low density lipoproteins and triglycerides level. This study was therefore aimed to provide valuable insights into their separate and synergistic effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) and Syzygium cumini (Jamun) on lipid profile and associated factors including body weight, body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure.

The study design was a Randomized Controlled Trial. The data was collected from Mukhtiar Munir Hospital. Patients that were selected were given Withania somnifera and Syzgium cumini capsules (500mg BD) daily separately and in combination (1000 mg QD) for a duration of 3 months. Before intervention patients were assessed and then after 6 weeks reassessment was done. After the completion of 12 weeks patients' weight, BMI, lipid profile and blood pressure were assessed again. Data was recorded using Excel and IBM-SPSS statistical software version 21.0. Frequencies and percentages were recorded for baseline characteristics on SPSS descriptive scale. The means of two measurements (pre- and post-intervention) of each variable made of the same person were compared using the paired sample T-Test. Statistics were considered significant for p-values less than 0.05.

Inclusion criteria

• Both male and female participants.
• Age group 25 - 65 years.
• Participants with at least one of the given factors (cholesterol more than 200 mg/dl, LDL more than 130mg/dl, HDL less than 40 mg/dl, triglycerides more than 200 mg/dl, VLDL more than 30mg/dl and non-HDL cholesterol more than 160mg/dl)

Exclusion criteria

• Pregnant and lactating women.
• Patients with chronic diseases or illness.
• Individuals with any food allergies.
• Individuals with congenital abnormalities.
• Individuals with psychological disorder.
• Individuals with history of moderate to severe intensity of gastrointestinal issues.
• Participants of treatment group must not be taking anti-hyperlipidemic medicines.