Project Abstract

Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of water extract of Cola nitida pod on lipoprotein concentrations of albino Wistar rats. Cola nitida, commonly known as kola nut, is a plant with various pharmacological properties. The study utilized 30 male albino Wistar rats divided into six groups. The control group received distilled water, while the five treatment groups received different concentrations of Cola nitida pod extract. After 28 days of treatment, blood samples were collected from the rats for lipoprotein analysis. The results showed that the water extract of Cola nitida pod had a significant effect on the lipoprotein concentrations of the rats. There was a dose-dependent decrease in the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the treated groups compared to the control group. The high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels also showed a significant increase in the treatment groups, indicating a potential beneficial effect on cardiovascular health. Furthermore, the extract demonstrated an ability to modulate the total cholesterol levels in the rats, with a noticeable reduction in the treated groups compared to the control group. This suggests a potential lipid-lowering effect of the Cola nitida pod extract. The triglyceride levels in the treated groups also showed a decreasing trend, although the difference was not statistically significant compared to the control group. Overall, the findings of this study suggest that the water extract of Cola nitida pod may have a beneficial effect on the lipoprotein concentrations of albino Wistar rats. The modulation of LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels indicates a potential role for Cola nitida in improving lipid profiles and cardiovascular health. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action and to determine the optimal dosage for achieving therapeutic benefits. In conclusion, the water extract of Cola nitida pod shows promise as a natural product for managing dyslipidemia and promoting cardiovascular health. Its potential lipid-lowering effects highlight the importance of exploring traditional herbal remedies for their pharmacological properties. Further studies are needed to validate these findings and to explore the potential clinical applications of Cola nitida in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases.

Project Overview

1.1 INTRODUCTION
Cola Nitida has been used in folk medicine as an aphrodisiac, an appetite suppressant, to treat morning sickness, migraine headache, and indigestion (Esimone et al., 2007). It has also been applied directly to the skin to treat wounds and inflammation (Newall et al., 1996)on the teeth and gums. There has also been speculations as to its use in the treatment of peptic ulcer, however, in Nigeria there is no record of the incidence of peptic ulcer.
According to Esimone (2007), cola nitida tree is native to West Africa. Cola nuts are obtained from cola trees. Cola nitida belongs to the genus cola and family steriliaceae. They are commonly used to counteract hunger and thirst; in some cases it is used to control vomiting in pregnant woman and also as a principal stimulant to keep awake and withstand fatigue by students, drivers, and other menial workers.
Lipoproteins are found in the liver and cells. The liver is the largest organ inside the body. The liver is dark reddish-brown and
consists of two main lobes. There are over 300 billion specialized cells in the liver that are connected by a well organized system of “bile” ducts and blood vessels called the biliary system.