Evaluation of Anti-Obesity and Hypolipidemic Effects of Garcinia cambogia Extract in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Rats

Abstract

The present study investigates the anti-obesity and hypolipidemic potential of Garcinia cambogia methanolic extract in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats. Obesity was induced by feeding rats a high-fat diet for eight weeks, followed by oral administration of G. cambogia extract at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg for six weeks. Orlistat (30 mg/kg) served as the standard reference. Biochemical, molecular, and histopathological analyses were performed to evaluate treatment efficacy. The extract significantly reduced body weight gain and food intake in a dose-dependent manner compared to the HFD control. Serum lipid profile analysis showed a marked decrease in total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL levels, along with elevated HDL levels. Furthermore, G. cambogia restored hepatic enzyme (ALT and AST) levels and improved liver morphology, indicating hepatoprotective effects. Enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, GSH) and decreased MDA levels confirmed its oxidative stress mitigation potential. Molecular studies revealed downregulation of lipogenic genes (SREBP-1c, PPARγ) and upregulation of CPT-1, supporting enhanced fatty acid oxidation. Histopathological analysis showed reduced adipocyte size and hepatic steatosis in treated groups. These findings suggest that Garcinia cambogia exhibits potent anti-obesity and lipid-regulating activities through multiple mechanisms, offering a natural and safe alternative for obesity management. Future research should focus on clinical validation, standardized formulations, and long-term safety assessments to facilitate its therapeutic application in humans. These findings establish G. cambogia as a promising candidate for the development of natural, safe, and effective anti-obesity therapies.