Placebo controlled research on herbs for prevention of coronary artery disease

Abstract

Introduction: Dyslipidemia refers to a disruption of lipid metabolism with exceeding serum levels of cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and/or lower level of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). Serum levels of lipids and lipoprotein lipids are among the most potent and best substantiated risk factors for atherosclerotic diseases, particularly coronary heart disease.

Design and Place of conduction: The research work was single blind placebo-controlled, conducted at Jinnah Hospital, Lahore. Research time: It was conducted from April 2017 to October 2017. Number of patients and their Age: Seventy five already diagnosed primary and secondary  hyperlipidemic patients were selected with age range from 17 to 65 years.

Exclusion criteria:  Diabetes mellitus, cigarette smoking/alcohol addictive patients, peptic ulcer disease, hypothyroidism, kidney dysfunction, any heart disease and liver disease. All patients were divided in three groups (group-I, group-II, group-III), 25 in each group. Proforma for patients: Their baseline lipid profile data were taken and filed in specifically designed Performa, at start of taking medicine. Patients group division: Twenty five patients of group-I were advised to take 10 grams of Flaxseeds in three divided doses after meal. Twenty five patients of group-II were advised to take Ajwain seeds 10 grams in three divided doses after each meal for two months. Twenty five patients of group-III were provided placebo capsules, (containing grinded rice), taking one capsule after each meal. All participants were advised to take these medicines for eight weeks. Followup period: All participants were called fortnightly for their query and  follow up. Their LDL-cholesterol, and HDL-cholesterol was determined at the hospital laboratory. Results: In two months therapy by Flaxseeds decreased LDL-cholesterol from 195.11±2.11 mg/dl  to 190.22±3.11 mg/dl, which is significant statistically. HDL was increased from 34.53±1.65 mg/dl to 38.97±2.29 mg/d, which is also significant change. In two months therapy by AJWAIN, LDL-c reduced from 201.51±2.62 mg/dl to 197.11±2.66 mg/dl, which is significant statistically. HDL-cholesterol increased by Ajwain from 36.97±3.32 mg/dl  to 37.45±1.87 mg/dl, which is insignificant statistically. Conclusion: It was concluded from this study that Ajwain and Flaxseeds reduces LDL-cholesterol moderately. Flaxseeds have more effect on HDL-c but Ajwain has lowest effect on this parameter. Key words: Lipids, Phytochemicals, CAD, Prevention, treatment