Anti-anemic Potential of Parkia speciosa Hassk. Peel Extract in Sodium Nitrite-Induced Anemic Wistar Rats: Evaluation of Hematological Parameters

Anemia involves reduced hemoglobin, erythrocyte count and hematocrit, often with oxidative damage to erythrocytes. Petai (Parkia speciosa Hassk.) peel is underused waste with hematoprotective compounds. This study tested its anti-anemic potential in sodium nitrite-induced rats. Thirty male rats formed six groups of five (three analysed): normal, negative and positive controls (ferrous fumarate), and extract at 300, 400 and 500 mg/kg BW. Sodium nitrite 50 mg/kg BW ran 14 days, the extract orally in the last seven. Hematology was measured on days 0 and 14. Phytochemical screening revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins and steroids. The extract improved hemoglobin, erythrocyte count and hematocrit at all doses; the highest raised leukocytes markedly (50.14 ± 17.89 ×10³/μL), possibly an inflammatory or stress response. The 300 mg/kg BW dose was optimal.