Aqueous extracts of Zingiber officinale rhizomes and Hibiscus sabdariffa leaves enhanced Plasmodium berghei-infected mice's hematological parameters.

Abstract

Malaria remains a global health challenge, leading to severe hematological complications. Natural alternatives such as Zingiber officinale and Hibiscus sabdariffa, known for their antioxidant and bioactive properties, are being investigated for their therapeutic potential. This study examines the hematological benefits of Z. officinale and H. sabdariffa in mice infected with the common malaria research model, NK65 chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium berghei. Forty-two albino mice, averaging 24.5 ± 1.23g, were randomly divided into six groups. Mice in group A were uninfected which served as the normal control group. Mice in groups B, C, D, E, and F were inoculated intraperitoneally with P. berghei. Group B were not treated while Groups C, D, E, and F received oral treatments for four days with 5 mg/kg body weight of chloroquine, 100 mg/kg body weight of Z. officinale, 100 mg/kg body weight of H. sabdariffa, and extract mixture at 150 mg/kg body weight (100mg/kg bw of H. sabdariffa: 50mg/kg bw of Z. officinale), respectively. Hematological markers that were measured and compared with the control group were hemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), platelet counts white blood cells (WBC), and red blood cells (RBC). Treatments with Z. officinale and H. sabdariffa extracts significantly (p