Salacia is a genus of plants traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in India, for the management of diabetes and metabolic disorders. In recent years, there has been scientific interest in Salacia species (notably Salacia reticulata, S. oblonga, and S. chinensis) for their potential lipid-lowering effects. Several preclinical studies in animal models have demonstrated that extracts of Salacia can reduce serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, possibly by inhibiting intestinal absorption of carbohydrates and fats or by modulating lipid metabolism enzymes. Some small-scale clinical trials in humans have shown modest reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol with Salacia supplementation, but these studies are generally limited by small sample sizes, short duration, and variability in extract composition and dosage.

A systematic review (PubMed ID: 24138335) noted that while Salacia extracts may have lipid-lowering potential, the current clinical evidence is insufficient to draw firm conclusions about their efficacy for hypercholesterolemia. Larger, well-designed human trials are needed for confirmation. In summary, there is some preliminary scientific support for Salacia’s use in managing high cholesterol, but the quality and quantity of evidence remain limited. Thus, the evidence rating is 2 out of 5.