Effect of Nigella Sativa (Kalonji) on Serum Lipid Profile

Abstract

The seeds of Nigella Sativa (Kalonji) have been used as a natural remedy to treat many diseases, including hyperlipidemia. The aim of this study was to examine the hypolipidemic and hypochlesterolemic effects of kalonji in albino rats. Eighty Four (84) albino rats were divided into 6 groups control (C) and experimen-tal (E). The diet contained palm oil in increasing con-centrations with one group having added atherogenic supplement. Kalonji was added as 5 ml / kg body wei-ght in powdered form. At the end of the study, the serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-c were found to be significantly low (P < 0.05). Hence, these findings demonstrate that Nigella Sativa (Kalonji) can favorably decrease serum lipid profile and it may be considered as a useful therapy for hyper-lipidemia.