Abstract
Ziziphus spina-Christi (Christ's thorn) species are used in folk medicine. Nowadays, most people return to the use of natural plant medicines as a treatment for some diseases or for their protective effects. So, this study aimed to investigate the effect of Ziziphus spina-Christi (Sidr) on hyperlipidemic rats. The present study used different parts of the sidr plant (pulp, leaves, and seeds). Chemical compositions, fractionation of phenols, and flavonoids were evaluated. As well, biological study and lipid blood were measurements. Also, sidr pulp powder was used in some bakery products. Results showed that sidr leaf powder had the highest amounts of protein, fiber, and Fe (22.89 g/100, 14.29 g/100, and 39.73 mg/100g, respectively). Sidr plant parts were rich in total phenol and total flavonoid contents. Catechin was the major compound in sidr pulp (both powder and water extract). Also, rutin (flavonoid compound) was the major compound in the water extract of sidr pulp. The rats in group 3, which fed on a high-fat diet with 10% sidr pulp powder, had improved blood lipid profile compared with hyperlipidemic rats in other groups. The same thing for kidney and liver functions was improved in hyperlipidemic rats feeding on 10% sidr pulp powder in their diet. Crackers sidr formula had better sensory properties scores than cake sidr formula. Sidr pulp powder caused an increase in total phenol, total flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activity by DPPH in cake and cracker products.