The Effects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Extract on Hematological Parameters in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Eucalyptus camaldulensis, a plant renowned in traditional Nigerian medicine for its diverse therapeutic properties including antiseptic, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects. Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes hematological abnormalities that worsen outcomes, underscoring the need for plant-based interventions like Eucalyptus camaldulensis with antioxidant and hematopoietic potential. Aim: To investigated the potential ameliorative effects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis extract on hematological parameters in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Method: Forty-two male rats (100–250g) were randomly assigned to six groups (n=7): normal control, diabetic control (negative), insulin-treated (0.2ml intraperitoneally), and three groups administered E. camaldulensis leaf extract orally at doses of 250, 350, and 450 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Treatments lasted for 21 days. Result: Hematological evaluation showed that diabetes induced alterations in RBC, Hb, PCV, WBC, and platelet counts. The extract, particularly at 350 and 450 mg/kg, significantly improved several hematological parameters. The 350 mg/kg dose notably elevated platelet counts (753.67 ± 30.90), while the 450 mg/kg dose increased Hb (14.50 ± 0.39), WBC (12.66 ± 0.79), and MCHC (29.98 ± 0.24). Furthermore, neutrophil levels improved significantly (27.20 ± 4.18) in the 450mg/kg extract-treated group compared to diabetic and insulin-treated controls, suggesting enhanced immune response and erythropoiesis. Conclusion: These findings suggest that Eucalyptus camaldulensis leaf extract exerts hematological restorative effects in diabetic conditions, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapeutic agent in managing diabetes-related hematological complications.