Investigation of the Effect of Carica Papaya Seed Extract on Some Haematological Parameters in Adult Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Haematological disorders, including anaemia and leukemia, are a significant public health issue globally, particularly in developing nations. Carica papaya L. seeds are known for their bioactive compounds, which have demonstrated antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities, but their effects on haematological parameters remain underexplored.

This study aimed to evaluate the dose-dependent effects of aqueous Carica papaya seed extract on haematological parameters in adult Wistar rats. Twenty-five rats were divided into five groups and administered varying doses of the extract (250, 500, 750, and 850 mg/kg) for 14 days, with a control group receiving normal saline. Blood samples were analyzed for red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count, haemoglobin (HGB) concentration, packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), platelet count, and differential leukocyte counts.

The results showed that RBC count ranged from 6.06 × 10¹²/L to 7.50 × 10¹²/L across groups, while WBC count ranged from 4.80 × 10¹²/L to 5.33 × 10¹²/L, and PCV ranged from 40.33% to 43.33%. There were no statistically significant changes in RBC, WBC, HGB, PCV, MCV, MCH, or MCHC when compared to the control group. However, significant dose-dependent changes were observed in minor leukocyte populations: eosinophil percentages increased at 250 and 500 mg/kg, basophil counts decreased at 250, 750 and 850 mg/kg, and monocyte levels rose at 500, 750 and 850 mg/kg.

Conclusion: Aqueous Carica papaya seed extract demonstrated potential immunomodulatory effects on specific leukocyte populations without significantly affecting major haematological parameters. Further studies with longer durations, and disease models are recommended to fully explore its therapeutic potential in haematological and immune system regulation