Ameliorative effects of Moringa oleifera on haematology, cardiac-troponin-I, electrolytes and histology of Wistar rats exposed to diesel fumes

Diesel fuel is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons obtained and used in various applications, such as motorboats, heavy equipment, generators, trucks, buses, and trains. However, the emissions from diesel engines contribute to air pollution and compromise air quality. This experimental study was carried out to evaluate the prophylactic and therapeutic effects of Moringa oleifera on diesel-induced changes on cardiovascular parameters. A total of 25 adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: group A (negative control); group B (exposed to diesel fumes only); group C (treated with Moringa extract and later exposed to diesel fumes); group D (exposed to diesel fumes and later treated with Moringa extract); and group E (treated with Moringa extract only). Forty (40) mg/kg/rat of 80% methanolic leaf extract of Moringa oleifera and 0.008 cm3/min/rat of fumes from liquid diesel were used as dosage of extract and volume of fumes respectively. The haematology showed polycythemia in the exposed group. Serum biochemical analysis revealed hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hyperchloremia, and hypercalcemia in the exposed groups. The result also revealed an increase in cardiac troponin-I concentration. In conclusion, exposure to diesel fumes caused changes in cardiovascular parameters, likewise prophylactic and therapeutic administration of Moringa oleifera leaf extract showed a promising result.