Atherogenicity Index and Electrolyte Parameters in Male and Female Rats Treated with the Aqueous Extract of the Barkless Roots of Rauvolfia vomitoria (EARv) AFZEL during Six (6) Months

Abstract

The atherogenicity index, determined from various plasma lipid fractions in conjunction with electrolyte parameters, is a major predictor of cardiovascular risk. This study aimed to compare the effects of the aqueous extract of the debarked roots of Rauvolfia vomitoria Afzel. (Apocynaceae) (EARv) on the atherogenicity index and electrolyte parameters in male and female rats treated for six months. Harvested Rauvolfia vomitoria roots were debarked and then processed into an aqueous extract by maceration. One hundred healthy rats were divided into four groups (T, A, B, C) of 20 rats each, comprising 10 males and 10 females per group. Groups Ts and Cs, derived from groups T and C, each consisted of 10 rats, comprising 5 males and 5 females, for the reversibility study. The rats in groups A and B received the extract at doses of 500 and 700 mg/kg body weight, respectively, while those in groups C and Cs received 1,000 mg/kg body weight of EARv orally for six months at a rate of 2 mL/100 g b.w. Serum from collected blood samples was used to determine LDL cholesterol concentrations, the atherogenicity index, and electrolyte levels (Na⁺, K⁺, and Cl⁻) after 1, 3, and 6 months of treatment. The results showed that EARv exerts a non-atherogenic and progressive, dose- and time-dependent lipid-lowering effect through a reduction in LDL cholesterol and the atherogenicity index. Furthermore, it does not disrupt electrolyte parameters, indicating good renal tolerance and suggesting that the extract does not compromise water-electrolyte homeostasis. Taken together, these results support the cardioprotective potential and safety of EARv during prolonged administration.