A Straightforward Statistical Approach to Evaluating Dragon Fruit Extract Effects on Graafian Follicle Development

Background: Red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus), a widely cultivated tropical fruit in Indonesia, is highly valued for its dense nutritional profile and high concentration of betalains—nitrogenous pigments that function as potent antioxidants. Aim: This study investigated the physiological impact of H. polyrhizus extract on the maturation of ovarian follicles, specifically focusing on the diameter of Graafian follicle in Female Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus). Methodology: Employing a true experimental design with a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), 24 healthy Female Wistar rats (weighing 150–200 g, aged 2–3 months) were selected via simple random sampling and divided into four treatment groups (P0, P1, P2, and P3). Results: Descriptive analysis revealed a dose-dependent upward trend in follicular size corresponding to increased extract concentrations. Inferential statistical analysis using ANOVA confirmed that the administration of dragon fruit extract significantly influenced the expansion of Graafian follicle diameters (p < 0.05). Subsequent Duncan’s Multiple Range Tests demonstrated significant differences in follicular growth across all experimental groups. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the antioxidant properties of red dragon fruit extract effectively enhance follicular maturation, highlighting its potential as a natural supplement for supporting female reproductive health.