The effects of hyssop hydroalcoholic extract on the serum biochemical factors of rats

Investigating the effects of medicinal plants on the basal physiology of the body is one of the main topics in the application of medicinal plants. Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) or Zofa is one of most important medicinal plants in Iran with numerous therapeutic properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. However, there is limited information on its effects on the basal physiology of the body. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of hyssop on liver and kidney activities in rats under normal physiological conditions.

For this purpose, 32 male rats of the Wistar breed were used. The rats were allocated to one control group and three experimental groups. The experimental groups received the hydroalcoholic extract of Zufa at 150, 100 and 50 mg/kg concentration levels for 21 days. After the trial, blood samples were collected to measure liver and kidney health indices.

The results showed that hyssop extract did not significantly affect cholesterol and ALT levels (P>0.05); while, significantly reduction in AST levels was observed. Consumption of hyssop extract at the concentration of 150 mg/kg b.w significantly increased GGT level (P<0.05); however, a significant decrease (P<0.05) was observed in creatinine and BUN parameters at the concentration level of 100 mg/kg. Consumption of hyssop extract did not affect HDL levels, whereas, at the concentration level of 150 mg/kg, LDL levels were significantly decreased (P<0.05). Moreover, a decreasing trend in glucose and triglyceride levels was observed with the consumption of hyssop extract.

Generally, Zufa extract at 100 mg/kg concentration level can effectively lower blood sugar without any negative effects on the liver and kidney health.