Abstract

Background: Madhu (honey) is conventionally used food and medicine since ages. Ayurvedic literatures emphasizes implication of Madhu in the management of Kaphaja Vyadhi (disease caused by vitiated phlem) and Sthoulya (obesity) due to Medo Dhatu Vruddhi (increase in adipocyte mass). Aim: To evaluate Anti-hyperlipidaemic and anti-obesity activity of Madhu. Materials & Methods: The present experimental study was conducted on high fat diet fed Wistar albino rats. Madhu mixed with Triphala Kashaya (Samyoga - added) and processed with Triphala Kashaya (Samskara - processed) was administered for 48 days (One Mandala Kala). Reduction in body weight, blood lipid prole and organ weight were recorded and compared statistically with the mean values of groups treated with Kevala Madhu (pure honey) and Jala Samskarita Madhu (honey processed with water). Results: Reduction in body weight was observed in all treated groups. Triphala Kashaya Samskarita Madhu treated animals exhibited remarkable reduction in body weight, serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL and elevated HDL levels. Changes pertaining to vital organ weight (liver, heart and kidney) were also corresponding with reduction in body weight of treated group animals. Conclusion: The study revealed signicant anti-hyperlipidaemic/anti-obesity activity of Samskarita Madhu.

Key words: Anti-hyperlipidaemic activity, Anti-obesity activity, Honey, Samskara, Samyoga, Triphala