Effects of Synergistic Consumption of Aqueous Extract of Cyperus esculentus, Phoenix dactylifera and Cocos nucifera on Hematological Indices in Male Rat Model

Background and Objective: The 80% of the population worldwide depend heavily on the use of herbs and supplements singly or as combinations for therapeutic purposes (ameliorative or prophylactically), enhancement or as supplements. This study assessed the effects of a synergistic mixture of Cyperus escunlentus, Phoenix dactylifera and Cocos nucifera (STDC) on selected hematological indices in a male rat model. Materials and Methods: Acute toxicity LD₅₀ of STDC was done and thereafter 15 healthy male Wistar rats weighing between 230-250 g procured from the Pharmacology and Therapeutics Department of the Rivers State University Port Harcourt were allotted into 3 groups containing 5 rats in each group: Control, STDC200 mg/kg and STDC 400 mg/kg groups. The test rats were administered doses of STDC with feed and water as required for 21 days after which blood samples were taken for hematological analysis using standard laboratory procedures. Descriptive statistics were computed and expressed as Mean±SD. One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s test were performed. The p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The acute toxicity LD₅₀ as >2404.2 mg/kg while WBC and differential counts (neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophils and eosinophils) were non-significantly (p<0.05) elevated, except monocyte having a non-significantly (p<0.05) reduced value. The RBC, PCV and Hb also manifested a statistically non-significant (p<0.05) increased plasma concentrations  as  well  as  a non-significant (p<0.05) decrease in platelet count. Conclusion: Thus, STDC could be useful in improving immunity as well as reticulocyte synthesis and functions.