EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF ANACARDIUM OCCIDENTALE (CASHEW) BARK ON THE LIPID AND HAEMOTOLOGICAL PROFILES OF FEMALE ALBINO RATS

ABSTRACT This study is aimed at determining the effect of aqueous extract of Anacardium occidentale bark on the lipid and hematological profiles of female albino rats. In Vivo studies on female wistar rat, the rats were group into four and administered extract orally using an oral galvage. Group 1 served as the normal control, Group 2 were administered 300 mg/kg of Anacardium Occidentale bark aqueous extract, Group 3 were administered 600 mg/kg of Anacardium Occidentale bark aqueous extract, Group 4 were administered 900 mg/kg of Anacardium Occidentale bark aqueous extract for 21 days. The result revealed that at higher dosages of the bark of Anacardium occidentale aqueous extract, there are no detrimental impacts on organ health or development within the experimental timeframe. These findings reinforce the potential safety profile of Anacardium occidentale as a therapeutic agent with minimal risks to organ integrity. Also the results revealed that the bark of Anacardium occidentale aqueous extract may play a beneficial role in modulating lipid metabolism by reducing the total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein without compromising overall health. On the assessment of hematological indices the result revealed that lower concentrations of the aqueous extract might stimulate erythropoiesis more effectively than higher ones. Collectively, these findings highlight the potential use of Anacardium occidentale bark extract as a natural alternative for managing hyperlipidemia while maintaining organ health and stability in hematological indices.