Effect of Watermelon (citrullus lanatus) on pulse rate and blood pressure in healthy individuals

Abstract

Watermelon is really useful, healthy and its great properties are well known to the world since ancient times. It has been reported that watermelon has an ingredient that deliver Viagra-like effects to the body's blood vessels and may even increase libido. This work was done to determine the effect of watermelon on pulse rate and blood pressure in healthy individuals. A total number of 40 adult human beings (20 males, 20 females) were randomly selected for use in this experiment. Watermelonwas given to each subject daily for seven days of experimental period respectively.The pulse rate was taken before and after the meal using palpation and the blood pressure was measured by auscultatory method. In the female subject, there is significant (P<0.01) increase between the basal pulse rate and the post watermelon pulse rate(75.7 ± 1.38 to 82.7 ± 2.58) showing a significant increase in pulse rate after taking the watermelon. In male subject, there is also significant (P<0.01)increase between the basal pulse rate and post watermelon pulse rate after the experiment( 69.9 ± 0.79 to 77.9 ± 1.38)showing a significant increase (P<0.01) in pulse rate after taking the watermelon.there was no significant changes in the basal systolic pressure and post- watermelon systolic pressure in both male and female subjects. The basal diastolic blood pressure in the male subject slightly reduced compared with post watermelon diastolic while tin female subject,there is slight increase.The results of this experiment suggest that increase in the pulse rate is due to the effect of watermelon on the blood flow which may be due to action of l-citrulline(active ingredient) on the blood vessel enhancing the activity of the heart. There is no significant change on the blood pressure.