PHYTO THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF INDIGENOUS PLANT EXTRACTS AGAINST SALBUTAMOL-INDUCED MYOCARDIAL INJURY AND LIPID DYSREGULATION

Abstract

Salbutamol, a widely used bronchodilator, is known to induce cardiotoxic effects, contributing to the global burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This study investigated the cardioprotective and antilipidemic potential of selected indigenous medicinal plants in a rabbit model of salbutamol-induced myocardial injury. Method Aqueous extracts of Alpinia zerumbet, Citrullus colocynthis, Cuscuta reflexa, Ranunculus bulbosus, Solanum xanthocarpum, and Viola tricolor were administered to rabbits at 50 and 100 µL/mL following myocardial injury induced by oral salbutamol (60 mg/kg b.wt.) for two days. Groups included healthy control, salbutamol-induced control, and a standard drug group treated with propranolol (Inderal). Lipid profiles, cardiac enzymes, and hematological parameters were assessed using commercial kits. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test (P<0.05). Results Salbutamol significantly elevated cardiac enzymes and lipid levels while reducing hematological indices. Most plant extracts, especially at 100 µL/mL, notably A. zerumbet, R. bulbosus, S. xanthocarpum, V. tricolor, and C. colocynthis, showed protective effects comparable to propranolol. C. reflexa exhibited milder activity. Conclusion These results support the therapeutic potential of these plants as safer, affordable alternatives in cardiovascular care.