Lipid-Lowering Effect of Solanum nigrum (Linn.) Leaves in a Rat Model of Tyloxapol-Induced Hyperlipidemia

Dyslipidemia is characterized by disruptions in lipid metabolism and is closely associated with oxidative stress. Several studies have attributed the hypolipidemic effects of medicinal plants to their antioxidant properties. This study evaluated the hypolipidemic and antioxidant potential of *Solanum nigrum* (Linn.) (*S. nigrum*) leaves in a rat model of tyloxapol-induced hyperlipidemia, with a view to exploring its therapeutic relevance. Powdered leaf extract of *S. nigrum* was incorporated into animal feed at graded levels (5%, 10%, and 15% w/w), pelletized, and oven-dried at 45°C. Rats were assigned to ten treatment groups: control (standard diet), extract-only groups (5–15%), triton-only group, extract (5–15%) plus triton groups, and standard drug groups treated with triton plus fluvastatin sodium (40 and 80 mg/kg). Following a 30-day feeding period, hyperlipidemia was induced via a single intraperitoneal injection of tyloxapol (Triton WR 1339; 200 mg/kg), and the rats were sacrificed under anesthesia. Plasma and liver samples were analyzed for lipid profile parameters, while histopathological assessments of the liver, heart, aorta, and kidneys were conducted. Antioxidant activity of the extract was also evaluated. *S. nigrum* extract significantly attenuated tyloxapol-induced hyperlipidemia in a dose-dependent manner. Total cholesterol and triglyceride levels decreased by 22.8%, while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased significantly (p < 0.05) with a corresponding reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Histopathology of the organs revealed marked tissue protection, supported by strong antioxidant activity. These findings suggest that *S. nigrum* possesses significant hypolipidemic and antioxidant properties and may serve as natural therapeutic option for managing hyperlipidemia and associated complications.