Lipid Risk Modulation by Desmostachya bipinnata Root Extract: A Preclinical Study on Atherogenic and Coronary Risk Indices in Diet-Induced Obesity Rats

Obesity is a major global health concern and major risk factor for a variety chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) stroke and hyperlipidemia. In the context of modern medicine, traditional herbal remedies are increasingly being explored
for their potential to address metabolic disorders in a holistic manner. Desmostachya bipinnata
(D. bipinnata) is a valuable medicinal plant long used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has demonstrated promising therapeutic potential. Traditionally recognized for its effectives in treating digestive disorders, urinary tract infections, inflammations and even certain type of
cancer, D. bipinnata is now being investigated for its potential anti-obesity and lipid-lowering properties. Objective: This study aims to evaluate anti obesity potential of the ethanolic extract of D. bipinnata roots (EEDB) in albino Wistar rats with high fat diet (HFD) induced obesity. Methods: EEDB root was subjected to phytochemical screening and high-performance thin
layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis to identify major bioactive compounds. In vitro antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibition assay were performed to evaluate the exacts metabolic potential. The anti-obesity activity of EEPD was assessed in albino Wistar rats fed a HFD with
doses of 100, 200 and 400mg/kg administered orally for 40 days. Orlistat was used as a standard
reference drug for comparison. Results: Preliminary phytoconstituents analysis confirmed the
presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, phenolic compounds and tannins in the extract.
The rats treated with EEDB at all three doses showed a significant reduction (p<0.001 &
p<0.01) in food intake, body weight, Lee index, serum total cholesterol, atherogenic index,
coronary risk index, insulin tolerance and inversely HDL and glucose tolerance compared to
the induced group. The extract also demonstrated portent antioxidant effect by increasing
enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) while reducing lipid peroxidation level. Conclusion: The findings suggest that D. bipinnata root extract possessed significant antiobesity efficacy, likely due to its hypophagic,hypolipidemic
and antioxidant properties. D. bipinnata bioactive compounds may offer integrative benefits
when used alongside conventional approaches, making it a candidate for development within