Objectives To determine the efficacy of Corchorus olitorius (C. olitorius) leaf extract in the prevention of metabolic syndrome induced in rats by high‐fat diet (HFD) and compare it with that of orlistat. Methods Phytochemical analysis was performed. Effect of orlistat and C. olitorius extract on lipase activity and acute food intake were investigated. Body weight, biochemical parameters and histopathological examination were demonstrated. Key findings Corchorus olitorius extract inhibited the pancreatic lipase activity, but orlistat was more potent. Cumulative food intake has not changed by the tested agents. In obese rats, C. olitorius or orlistat significantly decreased weight gain and visceral white adipose tissue. They exhibited a significant reduction in serum glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, free fatty acids, IL‐1β, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), insulin and leptin levels of obese rat groups while high density lipoprotein cholesterol and adiponectin levels were significantly increased by them. Histopathological examination of the liver revealed that C. olitorius was more effective than orlistat in the alleviating of steatosis and adipocyte hypertrophy shown in obese control rats. Conclusions Corchorus olitorius is effective as orlistat in preventing obesity, hyperlipidaemia, steatosis and insulin resistance. These actions may be mediated by inhibiting of lipase activity, TNF‐α, IL‐1β and leptin resistance along with increasing of adiponectin.

Boswellia serrata is as effective as orlistat in preventing obesity, hyperlipidemia, steatosis and insulin resistance. These actions may be mediated by suppression of food intake and decrease levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and leptin resistance along with increasing adiponectin.