A Novel Chitosan-Based Polyherbal Formulation: Phytochemical Standardization and Anti-Obesity Evaluation in Wistar Rats

Resumen

Introduction: Obesity is one of the most prevalent metabolic disorders globally, posing significant health risks such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Objectives: In the present study, a polyherbal formulation comprising Commiphora mukul (CM), Camellia sinensis (CS), Garcinia cambogia (GC), and Chitosan was developed and evaluated for its anti-obesity potential using experimental animal models. Methods: Standardization of extracts was performed using chromatographic techniques such as HPLC and HPTLC. The optimized formulation contained GC (50%), CS (25%), CM (20%), and Chitosan (5%). In vivo anti-obesity activity was assessed in Wistar rats using two experimental models: Cafeteria diet-induced obesity and Triton WR-1339–induced hyperlipidemia at two dose levels (400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg). Biochemical parameters including serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C, and LDL-C were estimated. Results: The phytochemical evaluation confirmed characteristic organoleptic properties and solubility profiles of all extracts, GC was standardized to 44.55% hydroxycitric acid (HCA) by HPLC and CM standardized by HPTLC using Guggulsterone E and Z (Rf 0.52 and 0.57). In-vivo studies revealed significant reduction in body weight, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and VLDL levels, along with a marked increase in HDL in both cafeteria diet– and Triton WR-1339–induced obesity models. The effects were dose-dependent, with the 800 mg/kg treatment group showing pronounced anti-obesity and antihyperlipidemic activity. Conclusions: The polyherbal formulation exhibited promising anti-obesity and antihyperlipidemic effects, supporting the synergistic potential of the selected plant extracts with chitosan. Future work will focus on developing an effective dosage form, conducting long-term safety studies, and exploring clinical applicability.