Phytochemical Study and Clinical Evaluation of Herbal Formula as Obesity Management

Abstract

Objective: Obesity is a significant global public health issue, affecting 39% of overweight and 13% of obese adults, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The objective of this study was included preliminary screening of main active compounds with clinical evaluation of herbal formula used in traditional medicine for obesity management. Methods. The methods for this study were included investigation of main active compounds in extracts of line seeds (Linum usitatissimum L.), Celery seeds (Apium graveoleus L.) Husk seeds (Plantago ovata L.) and marshmallow flower (Althea officinalis L.) Also this study contained the clinical evaluation of effects of herbal formula for obesity. The study involved two groups of participants who were given a herbal formula capsule for a duration of 8 weeks. The dosage consisted of one capsule (500mg) taken three times a day after meals. The second group was simultaneously treated with metformin, with a dosage of one tablet (500mg) provided twice daily after meals. Results: The results were referred to flavonoids glycosides which presented in all plants extracts, while other active compounds distributed differently among plants. The results of clinical study were referred to significant reduction in weight, BMI, Total cholesterol, Triglycerides, LDL – C  and VLDL with significant increasing of HDL. Conclusion: The herbal mixture may exert beneficial effects on both body mass index and serum lipids profile in humans, which can be linked to its flavonoids and antioxidant components.