Fifty per cent ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa (tuber) and Nardostachys jatamansi (whole plant) feeding elevates HDL-cholesterol/total cholesterol ratio. The extracts also caused a significant reduction in the ratio of total cholesterol/phospholipids. Curcuma longa exhibited better cholesterol and triglyceride lowering activity [Ch = -85%; Tg = -88%] as compared to N. jatamansi in triton-induced hyperlipidaemic rats. In view of the protective action of HDL against heart disease and atherogenecity, C. longa consumption is recommended.