Effect of baikal skullcap root (Scutellaria baicalensis radix) on cholesterol level and meat quality in rabbits fed a cholesterol rich diet

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the Baikal skullcap root (Scutellaria baicalensis radix) on the cholesterol level and chemical composition of the hind leg muscles of rabbits. Thirty two White New Zealand rabbits were assigned to four groups. Group C consisted of control animals which were fed a basal mixture for rabbits. Group CH received the same basal diet with a 1% (w/w) pure cholesterol supplement. Group CH+SR received the basal diet with two supplements: 1% (w/w) pure cholesterol and 9% (w/w) skullcap root. Group SR received the basal diet with a 9% (w/w) skullcap root supplement. After 6 weeks rabbits were slaughtered and, total cholesterol as well as dry matter, protein, fat, ash and pH24 were determined in samples of hind leg muscles. Using a Baikal skullcap root with hypercholesterolemic diet (group CH+SR) caused significant reduction (P < or = 0.05) in total cholesterol level in comparison with hypercholesterolemic diet (CH group). The addition of Baikal skullcap root to the food of rabbits significantly increased the muscle protein content (P < or = 0.05) in comparison with C and CH groups. Moreover, supplementation with Baikal skullcap root (CH+SR) decreased about 15.6% (P < or = 0.05) fat level in comparison to CH group. No significant effects were seen in dry matter content, ash, and pH24 value of hind leg muscles of experimental rabbits