Citrullus Lanatus Seed Extract Ameliorates Hematological and Oxidative Stress Disorders in Lead-Induced Toxicity in Rats

Lead (Pb) is one of the major causes of oxidative damage. This study evaluated the effect of Citrullus lanatus (watermelon) seed extract (CLSE) on hematological and oxidative stress biomarkers in rats following exposure to lead. Wistar rats were assigned to 5 groups (n = 5); group 1 Control, group 2 received 120 mg/kg Pb acetate only, group 3 received 200 mg/kg ethanol seed extract of CLSE only, group 4 received Pb acetate and CLSE (120 mg/kg + 200 mg/kg), group 5 received Pb and CLSE (120 mg/kg + 400 mg/kg). Pb caused a decrease (p < 0.05) in red blood cell count and indices, increased white blood cell counts and differential counts when compared with the control and CLSE-treated groups. CLSE administration raised (p < 0.05) RBC counts and reduced total WBCs when compared to control groups. Platelet count in CLSE high dose was comparable to control. Glutathione and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities decreased (p < 0.05), while malondialdehyde (MDA) was raised (p < 0.05) in Pb-only group when compared with CLSE-treated groups. C. lanatus (watermelon) seed may be beneficial in management of hematological disorders caused by Pb-induced oxidative stress. © 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to The National Academy of Sciences, India.