Comparative studies on Ricinus communis, Elaeis guineensis and Helianthus annuus oil consumption on atherosclerosis pathogenesis using albino rats

Consumption of saturated fat has been pointed out as one major contributor to the development of atherosclerosis. This study aims to investigate the comparative effects of castor oil (Ricinus communis), palm oil (Elaeis guineensis) and sunflower oil (Helianthus annuus) consumption on the atherosclerosis pathogenesis using albino rats. Castor oil, sunflower oil and palmoil were mixed with rat chow at varying percentages (2.5% -10%) and fed to forty Wistar rats (male and female) weighing between 110g – 125g for 21 days. The rats were divided into groups labeled A through H, with five rats in each group. After 21 days, the body weight, liver function parameters, lipid profile, kidney function parameters, lipid peroxidation, and other biochemical analysis were determined using standard procedures. The results from the research showed significant weight gain in rats fed with sunflower oil and palm oil diets, while castor oil fed group led to a significant decrease in body weight. Liver function test revealed elevated alkaline phosphatase levels in groups B, C and E. Lipid profile results showed a significant increase(p < 0.05) in total cholesterol level and non-significant increase in high-density lipoproteins and low-density lipoproteins in all groups. Kidney function tests indicated potential renal damage in group B. Malondialdehyde levels which indicated lipid peroxidation, showed a significant increase in group D. The different combinations of oils have varying effects on various physiological parameters, however, castor oil has a higher tendency to trigger the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, especially at a 10% mix.