Hypolipidemic effect of cinnamon extract (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) in a hypercholesterolemia model
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12957/demetra.2025.84467Keywords:
Herbal medicine. Cholesterol. Oxidative stress. Inflammation.Abstract
Introduction: Hypercholesterolemia is the main risk factor for the formation of atheromatous plaques in the arteries and is an important risk factor for the development of Alzheimer's disease. Among the plants that have been the subject of various pharmacological studies, cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) stands out as having natural therapeutic potential. Objective: To investigate the effects of cinnamon extract in a model of hypercholesterolemia using mice. Methods: This study used young male C57BJ6 mice (90 days old) with and without hypercholesterolemia caused by a genetic deficiency in LDL receptors. The animals were given cinnamon extract or vehicle for 30 days. After treatment, blood levels of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, oxidized LDL and triglycerides were assessed. In addition, markers of oxidative stress in the blood were analyzed, such as total antioxidant capacity (TRAP), levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as cytokines related to inflammation in the hippocampus (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukins 1-β, 6 and 10). Results: Mice deficient in the LDL receptor showed increased levels of total cholesterol, LDL, oxidized LDL and triglycerides, as well as reduced HDL. Treatment with cinnamon extract normalized these biochemical parameters, protected against oxidative damage and reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus. Conclusion: Cinnamomum zeylanicum extract showed beneficial effects in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and may be useful as a preventive or adjuvant therapy.
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