Effect of Fermented Pentaclethra Macrophylla Benth (African Oil Bean) Seed Extract on Plasma Lipid Profile in Healthy Rat Model-A Preliminary Study

Background: African oil bean seed is one of several plant products commonly used in Nigeria as food. However, report as to whether or not it could predispose consumers to dyslipidemia is yet to be documented.

Aim: The study aim was to determine the effect of fermented Pentaclethra Macrophylla Benth (African oil bean) seed extract on lipid profile.

Methods: A total of twenty-five (25) male rats randomly divided into five groups of five rats per group were used. Each group received the crude methanol seed extract of Pentaclethra Macrophylla Benth (MEPB) once daily at the dose of 500, 1000, 1500 and 2000 mg kg-1 body weight respectively, for 14 days except the control group. Lipid profile parameters were determined according to enzymatic assay using a commercial kit from Randox Laboratories, United Kingdom and calculation using Friedewald’s equation.

Results: A statistically significant increase in HDL and decrease in LDL content (p < 0.05) were obtained following the administration of MEPB in all dosed groups compared with the control group. Administration of MEPB in all dosed groups improved lipid metabolism and increased percentage protection against atherogenesis by a range between 61% - 90%.

Conclusion: Fermented African oil bean seed has a positive effect on lipid metabolism and showed an anti-atherogenic property. According to the result, African oil bean seeds at the level used in the study could protect against atherosclerosis.