Effect of Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder on Hematological Profile of Male Wistar Rats

BACKGROUND: Indonesia is a country with high biodiversity of more than 20,000 plant species, and 35% of them are identified as having health benefits. Moringa oleifera is one plant that almost all of its parts have been used as nutritional supplements and traditional medicines. Moringa leaves contain nutrients, antioxidants, and bioactive substances that have anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and anti-anemia properties. PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the hematological effect of Moringa leaf powder in male Wistar rats under normal conditions. METHODS: Twenty-four male Wistar rats strain (Rattus norvegicus) 9−10 weeks old and 250−275 grams were divided into four groups (n=6), normal as a control group and three other groups were given Moringa leaf powder at doses 200, 400, and 800 mg/kgBW during 12 weeks. Blood samples at week 12 were administered to determine blood count. RESULTS: The results of this study showed differences between the various doses of Moringa leaf powder for each hematological profile. These differences were more significant for MCH parameters that indicated a decrease in the D800 group compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study revealed that the consumption of Moringa leaf powder for 12 weeks did not have a significant change in the hematological profile, except for the MCH value that revealed a modification.