Antioxidant and anti-hyperlipidemic activity of hydroethanolic seed extract of Aframomum melegueta K. Schum in Triton X-100 induced hyperlipidemic rats

Abstract In Nigeria, Aframomum melegueta seed tincture extract is used in the management of cardiovascular disease and obesity. This study thus evaluates the antioxidant and anti-hyperlipidemic activity in Triton X-100 induced hyperlipidemic rats. The phytochemical constituents of the extract were identified using gas chromatography linked with mass spectrometer. In vitro antioxidant activity of the extract (0.2–1.0 mg/mL) was investigated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, superoxide ion, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxyl radical. In vivo antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic properties of the extract were evaluated in Triton X-100 induced hyperlipidemia in rats. Gas-chromatogram indicates the presence of 11 components with Trans β-ocimene being the major constituent. The extract scavenged DPPH, H 2 0 2 and OH − radical concentration dependently. Triton X-100 significantly (p  A. melegueta seed possess antioxidants and antihyperlipidemic properties.