Effect of alfalfa saponins on intestinal cholesterol absorption in rats

Abstract

Five to 20 mg of saponins obtained from alfalfa tops or roots were introduced intragastrically in rats also receiving oral and intravenous ring-labeled cholesterol. The saponins were tested before and after partial acid hydrolysis. Absorption of cholesterol was determined by estimation of fecal sterols and by a dual isotope technique involving assay of plasma radioactivity. Alfalfa top saponins (nonhydrolyzed) reduced absorption of cholesterol. Acid hydrolysis of alfalfa top or root saponins enhanced their ability to inhibit cholesterol absorption.

Criteria for Safe Use of Plant Ingredients in Diets for Aquacultured Fish

“…They can also be degraded by acid and alkaline hydrolysis (Cleland et al, 1996) and glucosidases of bacterial origin (Gestetner et al, 1968). Saponins are also lost due to binding with cholesterol, forming an insoluble complex that cannot be absorbed (Malinow et al, 1977). In the only report of the fate of orally administered saponins in fish, Knudsen et al (2006) (approximately 2.6 times) of saponins in feces than in the diet, suggesting that bacterial degradation may be limited in fish.…”

Phytochemical and pharmacological potential ofMedicago sativa: A review

“…Several studies indicate that the ingestion of M. sativa reduces cholesterol absorption and atherosclerotic plaque formation in animals (Wilcox & Galloway, 1961;Malinow et al, 1977aMalinow et al, , 1981aCohen et al, 1990). M. sativa top (stem and leaves) saponins have been reported to decrease plasma cholesterol concentrations without changing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations, decrease intestinal absorption of cholesterol, increase excretion of neutral steroids and bile acids, prevent atherosclerosis and induce the regression of atherosclerosis (Malinow et al, 1982a).…”

Antidiabetic effects of Cycas riuminiana leaf extracts on alloxan-induced diabetic ICR mice (Mus musculus L.)

“…[31,35] Particularly, saponins have been implicated in preventing the absorption of cholesterol, which may be the reason for its cholesterollowering activity. [36] The study focused on the antihyperglycemic and antihypercholesterolemic effects of C. riuminiana aqueous extracts. It can then be inferred based on the results that presence of phytochemicals, particularly saponins, alkaloids and tannins may work synergistically or independently to lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels.…”