Hipolipemiante activity of the ayote flower (Cucurbita moshata)

Abstract

Introduction: Cucurbita moschata flowers are consumed in certain places of Latin America. It has extensive therapeutic uses; therefore, efforts have been made to validate these characteristics under controlled conditions. Objective: To evaluate the toxicity and lipid-lowering activity of C. moschata flower decoction in experimental mice. Methodology: The study substance was administered orally, daily, for four weeks in three concentrations: 1 g/10 mL, 3 g/10 mL and 6 g/10 mL; in addition, a control group was established. Two weeks before, both groups were induced to a high-fat and carbohydrate diet, which was maintained throughout the investigation. Toxicity with the highest oral concentration, for 28 days, was evaluated previously. Results: The evaluated concentration did not induce toxicity in treated animals. The lipid-lowering activity showed a decrease in glucose levels with all treatments, while triglycerides and cholesterol showed only a decrease in low and medium levels. Conclusions: The evaluated decoction has potential for the treatment of dyslipidemias, without producing adverse effects in laboratory mice.