Study of Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) extract effects on serum paraoxonase-1 activity

Cumin (Cuminum Cyminum) has antioxidant property, therefore it may be able to reduce the lipid oxidation levels. Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) is exclusively associated with HDL. PON1 can hydrolyze oxidized phospholipids formed during lipoprotein peroxidation and plays a protective role against the oxidative modification of plasma lipoproteins. The aim of this study was to investigate the Cumin effects on plasma lipoproteins and paraoxonase-1 activity. In this clinical trial study, 92 adult patients with LDL-C greater than 120mg/dL divided into two groups of Cumin and lovastatin. There was no significant difference in demographic characteristics between two groups. Before and after treatment with Cumin and lovastatin, lipid profile and paraoxonase activity were measured in all subjects and data were analyzed by paired t-test using SPSS software. Cumin reduced levels of glucose and ox-LDL, but it increased aryl esterase activity of PON1.There was no significant relationship between Cumin and other lipid profiles in this study. Cumin increased PON1 activity better than lovastatin, therefore it can be used as a supplement in lovastatin therapy. Cumin and lovastatin probably have better effect to reduce ox-LDL levels if they be used together.