Abstract
BACKGROUND: Obesity, a critical public health issue, is linked to numerous metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Natural products may present a safer and more holistic approach to weight management. A standardized extract of Cyperus rotundus (CRE), containing 6% to 8% stilbenes (scirpusin A, scirpusin B, and piceatannol) was effective in reducing adipogenesis and weight gain in preclinical studies. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of CRE combined with the bioavailability enhancer piperine (CREP), as a natural supplement for managing weight in obese individuals. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted over 90 days involving 96 obese participants. Subjects received oral supplementation of 500 mg CRE with 5 mg piperine (CREP) twice daily, alongside a prescribed exercise and diet regimen. Primary outcomes included anthropometric measures such as body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-hip ratio. Secondary outcomes assessed included serum lipid parameters, Apolipoprotein B-100, calorie intake, physical activity, and safety evaluations. RESULTS: CREP supplementation led to significant reductions in body weight, body mass index, waist, and hip circumference compared to placebo. Improvements in serum lipid profiles and Apolipoprotein B-100 levels were also observed in the CREP group. No adverse events were reported, and all laboratory parameters remained within normal ranges. CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate that CREP is a safe and effective natural supplement for reducing abdominal obesity and improving lipid profiles. The observed benefits surpassed those of lifestyle management alone, supporting the potential development of CREP as a natural therapeutic option for weight management in obese individuals.