INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF THE LEAF OF PEANUT TREE (PACHIRA GLABRA) ON SOME SELECTED CELLULAR ANTIOXIDANT SYSTEM OF MALE ALBINO RATS

The present study investigated the effect of aqueous extract of the leaf of peanut tree (Pachira glabra) on some selected cellular antioxidant system of rats. Ten (10) healthy adult male albino rats with average weight of 150g were grouped into two A and B respectively. Group A were considered as control placed on water and food while group B were treated with 50mg/kg body weight of Pachira glabra for period of seven days. The findings show that the extract significantly boosts the activities of catalase and glutathione peroxidase, key enzymatic antioxidants. Additionally, the extract increases reduced glutathione levels, essential for maintaining cellular redox balance and protecting against oxidative stress. These results highlight Pachira glabra potential as a natural antioxidant that strengthens the body's defense against oxidative damage. However, the extract did not significantly affect lipid peroxidation, as indicated by analysis. Pachira glabra, a member of the Bombacaceae family is one of such underutilized fruits in Nigeria. It is commonly known as Malabar chestnut, Brazil nut, Brown nut, Wild cocoa, French peanut, Guinea peanut, Money tree, Lucky tree and Epaigi (Yoruba), the plant is renowned for its potential medicinal properties. Further studies are therefore recommended to assess the toxicological effects, dose dependent effects and mechanistic understanding.