238-242In order to gain
insight into the antioxidant effect of cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum; Lauraceae)
and cardamom (Amomum subulatum; Zingiberaceae) hepatic and cardiac antioxidant
enzymes, glutathione (GSH) content and lipid conjugated dienes were studied
in rats fed high fat diet along with cinnamon or cardamom. The antioxidant
enzyme activities were found to be significantly enhanced whereas GSH
content was markedly restored in rats fed a fat diet with spices. In addition, these
spices partially counteracted increase in lipid conjugated dienes and hydroperoxides,
the primary products of lipid peroxidation. Thus, it appears that these spices exert
antioxidant protection through their ability to activate the antioxidant enzymes