Effect of consumption of Cucurbita pepo seeds on haematological and biochemical parameters

Abstract

The study investigated the effect of Cucurbita pepo seeds on haematological and biochemical parameters on Wistar albino rats. The rats were maintained on diets composed of different concentrations of pulverized seeds of C. pepo. Blood samples and organs investigations were carried out using standard laboratory tests. The result revealed that C. pepo seeds significantly affected these parameters with beneficial effects on the vital organs and blood. The concentrations of the platelets, white blood cells and eosinophil were increased, while it reduced the concentrations of the neutrophils, packed cell volume and lymphocytes. It also significantly increased mean weights of the liver and the kidneys as evidenced by the statistically significant increase in total protein values of these organs. The doses significantly reduced the plasma levels of AST and ALT in these organs (p<0.05). The seeds showed a dose-dependent nephro- and hepato-protective ability. In conclusion, C. pepo seed has beneficial nutritional values when consumed adequately. © 2011 Academic Journals.