Objective: To explore the effects of different extracts of Rhinacanthus nasutus (DER) on lipid metabolism of the quails. Method: The quails were randomly divided into 11 groups

each included 12 quails:normal control group

model group

Zhibituo (2.0 g·kg-1) positive control group

high dose and low dose (21.6

5.4 g·kg-1) groups of three extracts of DER. The quails atherosclerotic model was established by feeding high fat food.The administration lasted three months. Total cholesterol(TC)

triglycerides(TG)

high density lipoprotein cholestero(HDL-C) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C) levels were measured

the tissues of aorta and liver were observed under light microscope. Result: Compared with normal control group

the content of TC

TG

LDL-C of model group was increased(P<0.01). Compared with model group

the end of 3nd month after administration

the content of TC

TG

LDL-C in DER groups was decreased obviously (P<0.05-P<0.01)

content of HDL-C was increased

there were significant differences. The effects of ethyl acetate and butanol effective parts was better than petroleum and water extrats;and the pathological lesions of atherosclerotic plaque were significantly lessened. Conclusion: Extraction of R. nasutus can effectively decrease the serum lipid and prevent the formation of atherosclerosis.