Protective Effects of Cucumeropsis Mannii (Egusi Seed) on Hematological Parameters in Diabetic Wistar Rats

Background: Cucumeropsis mannii is rich in bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and essential fatty acids, which contribute to their protective properties across multiple organ systems. Considering the adverse effects of hyperglycemia and its complications; this study is aimed at evaluating the protective properties of cucumeropsis mannii in diabetic Wistar rats’ hematological parameters. Methods: Twenty (20) Wistar rats were used in the study. The rats were grouped into five groups: Control group as Group 1, Group 11 (Alloxan induced diabetes), Group 111(Negative group that were induced with diabetes and treated with only metformin for two weeks), Group IV (Induced with diabetes and treated daily with only Cucumeropsis mannii oil 10ml/kg body weight for 2 weeks)., and Group V (Induced with diabetes and treated daily with metformin and Cucumeropsis mannii oil 10ml/kg body weight for 2 weeks). After which the Wistar rats were euthanized and the blood sample were collected into EDTA and Floride oxalate containers for the estimation of hematological parameters and blood glucose levels; using hematology analyzer and glucose oxidase method respectively. Results: The combination of metformin and Cucumeropsis mannii show statistically significant difference of reduction of blood glucose levels p<0.001, and improved hematological parameters in group V, when compared with the other groups. Conclusion: Cucumeropsis mannii when administered along with metformin demonstrates its positive protective effects on hematological parameters and reduction in blood glucose. Key words: Egusi seed, Diabetes, Hematological parameter, WBC, Metformin