In Vivo Antioxidant and Hematinic Potential of Moringa oleifera Aqueous Extract in Phenylhydrazine-Induced Aneamic Wistar Rats

Anaemia remains a major public health challenge, often associated with oxidative stress and impaired erythropoiesis. This study investigated the in vivo antioxidant and hematinic potential of aqueous leaf extract of Moringa oleifera in phenylhydrazine-induced anaemic Wistar rats. Anaemia was induced using phenylhydrazine to generate oxidative damage and hemolysis, after which experimental animals were treated with graded doses of M. oleifera aqueous extract. Hematological parameters including packed cell volume, hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, and related indices were assessed to evaluate hematinic activity. In addition, antioxidant status was determined by measuring markers such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, and malondialdehyde levels. Results showed that treatment with M. oleifera extract significantly improved hematological indices and restored antioxidant enzyme activities while reducing lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner when compared with untreated anaemic controls. These effects suggest enhanced erythropoietic activity and protection against oxidative stress. The findings demonstrate that aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera possesses notable antioxidant and hematinic properties, supporting its traditional use in the management of anaemia and oxidative stress-related conditions.