Watermelon Extract Research Articles

Subacute Use of Aqueous Extract of Water Melon (Citrullus lanatus) Seeds Mitigates against Pyramidal Neuronal Toxicity of Lead Acetate in Adult Wistar Rats

Introduction: Lead exposure remains a significant public health burden across the globe, impacting millions of individuals and posing a major threat to nervous system development and function As a reported bio-toxic environmental and industrial pollutant, Lead (Pb) do accumulates in almost all body tissues to cause health complications with the cerebellar region of the central nervous system reported to be more susceptible to cellular distortions. As a flowering plant species of the Cucurbitaceae family, watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is associated with numerous medicinal properties. Aim: This study aim to investigate the possible neuroprotective potential of aqueous extract of citrulus lanatus seed on lead acetates-induced neurotoxicity in the Cerebral cortex of adult Wistar rats. Place of Study: Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, Nigeria. Methods: Twenty (20) healthy adult female wistar rats weighing 150±50g were randomly assigned into 4 groups (n=5). The Control group received 2mls/kg of distilled water, Treatment group (T1) was administered 7.5 mg/kg of lead acetate, Treatment group (T2) was administered 200 mg/kg of aqueous extract of citrullus lanatus and Treatment group (T3) was administered 7.5 mg/kg of lead acetate and 200 mg/kg of aqueous extract of citrullus lanatus concomitantly orally for fourteen (14) days. H&E and Cresyl violet histological stains and Biochemical assays for SOD, CAT activities and MDA concentration was determined. Data obtained from the study were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and subjected to Turkeys post hoc test from the multiple comparison. Results: Revealed no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) in body weight and brain weight changes across groups relatives to the control group while SOD and Catalase activities were increased significantly in the Treatment groups compared to control group. Histological findings in control group and T2 showed normal histoarchitectural appearance of cerebral cortex Pyramidal neurons while the lead exposed group (T1) revealed features of neurodegenerative changes evident by nuclear shrinkage with pyknosis and karryorrhexis. while T3 revealed near normal presentations. Conclusion: In summary, Citrullus lanatus mitigates against pyramidal neuronal cells distortions following lead acetate induced toxicity in Wistar Rats and also further affirms its antioxidative potential.

The Effect of 100% Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Extract on Tooth Discoloration with Rub Techniques

Tooth color can change because of several factors that are needed for teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can be performed on vital and non-vital teeth. Home bleaching is a vital whitening treatment that many people choose because practice can be done at home. Bleaching agent used for home bleaching techniques is 10% -22% carbamide peroxide. However, carbamide peroxide has side effects on the oral cavity. So, several previous researches have examined natural ingredients that contain the ability to whiten teeth. One of them is 100% watermelon extract which is proven to whitenteeth by immersing. However, this method cannot be applied clinically, so the purpose of this research is to know the effect of watermelon extract on tooth discoloration with rub techniques application. This type of research is an experimental laboratory. 10 maxillary premolars were discolored which were divided into two groups (watermelon extract and 10% carbamide peroxide). Each group was given the treatment 3 hours per-day for 14 days. After the bleaching process, the teeth are cleaned and immersed in a solution of saliva. Before and after bleaching, they were measured with a shade guide and spectrophotometer. Data analysis used paired t-test and wilcoxon. The results of paired t-test on group 1 p=0.024 (p <0.05). The wilcoxon test results on group 2 with p=0.043 (p <0.05). Both have influence, but the application of 10% watermelon extract is lower than 10% carbamide peroxide. It can be concluded: 100% watermelon extract with rubbing techniques has an effect on teeth whitening. Although, lower than 10% carbamide peroxide

The Antibacterial Effectiveness of Citrullus lanatus-Mediated Stannous Nanoparticles on Streptococcus mutans.

Introduction Dental caries is a prevalent oral health issue caused by the colonization of Streptococcus mutans in the oral cavity. Citrullus lanatus, commonly known as watermelon, is rich in bioactive compounds that possess antibacterial potential. In this study, we aimed to synthesize stannous chloride (SnCl2) nanoparticles (NPs) mediated by Citrullus lanatus extract and investigate their antibacterial effectiveness against Streptococcus mutans. Materials and method Stannous nanoparticles (SnNPs) synthesized by the green method were achieved by using the watermelon extract. Dilute stannous chloride solution was obtained by adding 0.45 gof stannous (Sn) chloride (Cl) powder to 60 mL of water, which was subjected to an orbital shaker with the watermelon extract. The nanoparticles obtained were subjected to characterization using antimicrobial testing, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray (EDAX) analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Agar well diffusion method was used against specific strains of S. aureus, S. mutans, and Escherichiacoli. Results The novel nanoparticles demonstrated promising antibacterial activity against S. mutans providing 10 mm of inhibitory action. Conclusion Due to its abundance of naturally occurring bioactive chemicals and improved efficacy against S. mutans, watermelon extract can be utilized to createstannous nanoparticles as opposed to the use of toxic chemicals. They can also be employed as oral administration systems.

Formulasi Sediaan Krim Ekstrak Etanol Kulit Buah Semangka Merah Sebagai Krim Antijerawat

Acne is a problem caused by Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. Red watermelon rind contains lycopene compounds, antioxidants, has tannin and flavonoid compounds and is very good for skin care, free from acne, functions as an antibacterial. The purpose of this study was to formulate ethanol extract of red watermelon rind into anti-acne cream preparation and determine the inhibition zone and determine the red watermelon rind cream has the best antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. The method used in this study was experimental, extract concentration of 15%, 20%, 25%. The antibacterial activity test was conducted using the pitting method and evaluated the physical properties of the cream preparation including organoleptic examination, pH test, homogeneity test, adhesion test, spreadability test. The results showed that the evaluation of the physical properties of the cream preparation had characteristics in accordance with the evaluation of the preparation carried out at each concentration, including organoleptic examination, pH test, homogeneity test, adhesion test, spreadability test. The results of the antibacterial activity test of ethanol extract of red watermelon rind F1, F2, F3 are: 6.76 mm, 8.33 mm, 8.73 mm. The results of the antibacterial activity test of the cream preparation of ethanol extract of red watermelon rind F1, F2, F3 are: 4.47 mm, 6.04 mm, 8.17 mm. It can be concluded that the cream preparation of ethanol extract of red watermelon rind meets the characteristics of cream preparation stability, meets the criteria of good physical properties at concentrations of 15%, 20%, 25%, has weak to moderate category antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes bacteria.

A Critical Review on Vasoactive Nutrients for the Management of Endothelial Dysfunction and Arterial Stiffness in Individuals under Cardiovascular Risk.

Pathophysiological conditions such as endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness, characterized by low nitric oxide bioavailability, deficient endothelium-dependent vasodilation and heart effort, predispose individuals to atherosclerotic lesions and cardiac events. Nitrate (NO3-), L-arginine, L-citrulline and potassium (K+) can mitigate arterial dysfunction and stiffness by intensifying NO bioavailability. Dietary compounds such as L-arginine, L-citrulline, NO3- and K+ exert vasoactive effects as demonstrated in clinical interventions by noninvasive flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) and pulse-wave velocity (PWV) prognostic techniques. Daily L-arginine intakes ranging from 4.5 to 21 g lead to increased FMD and reduced PWV responses. Isolated L-citrulline intake of at least 5.6 g has a better effect compared to watermelon extract, which is only effective on endothelial function when supplemented for longer than 6 weeks and contains at least 6 g of L-citrulline. NO3- supplementation employing beetroot at doses greater than 370 mg promotes hemodynamic effects through the NO3--NO2-/NO pathway, a well-documented effect. A potassium intake of 1.5 g/day can restore endothelial function and arterial mobility, where decreased vascular tone takes place via ATPase pump/hyperpolarization and natriuresis, leading to muscle relaxation and NO release. These dietary interventions, alone or synergically, can ameliorate endothelial dysfunction and should be considered as adjuvant therapies in cardiovascular diseases.

Production Fruitghurt From Watermelon Skin With The Addition Of Dragon Fruit Extract As A Natural Colorant

This study aimed to determine the optimum formulation of fruitghurt from the white layer of watermelon skin with the addition of dragon fruit extract and to analyze the effect of adding dragon fruit extract to pH, lactic acid levels, vitamin C and fruitghurt acceptability from the white layer of watermelon skin. This research method consisted of 5 stages, namely making watermelon skin filtrate, making watermelon extract, making dragon fruit extract, making fruitghurt and incubation (fermentation). In this study, 4 formulations were carried out with different proportions of adding dragon fruit extract. Formula A (100 ml of watermelon skin filtrate, 15 ml of watermelon extract, 0 ml of dragon fruit extract, 11.5 grams of skim milk, 11.5 grams of sugar, 23 grams of plain yogurt), formula B (100 ml of skin filtrate, 15 ml of watermelon extract, 3.5 ml dragon fruit extract, 11.5 grams skim milk, 11.5 grams sugar, 23 grams plain yogurt), formula C (100 ml watermelon peel filtrate, 15 ml watermelon extract, 6.5 ml extract dragon fruit, 11.5 grams of skim milk, 11.5 grams of sugar, 23 grams of plain yogurt), formula D (100 ml of watermelon skin filtrate, 15 ml of watermelon extract, 9.5 ml of dragon fruit extract, 11.5 grams of milk skim, 11.5 grams of sugar, 23 grams of plain yogurt). The sample tests that have been made include the pH test, lactic acid level test, vitamin C level test, and organoleptic test. The test data were analyzed statistically by using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Ducans multiple Range Test (DMRT). The results obtained were the addition of dragon fruit extract had a significantly different effect on pH, lactic acid levels, vitamin C levels, taste, aroma, color, but had no significant effect on the texture of the fruitghurt produced. The optimum formulation obtained was in treatment D with a pH value (4.57), lactic acid content (2.04%), vitamin C content (0.031%), taste test 2.72 (somewhat like), color test 4.88 (like very much), texture test 4.08 (like), and aroma test 3.48 (like)

Effect of Different Drying Processing Method on the Physicochemical Properties of Watermelon Powder

Watermelon is a seasonal fruit high in essential ingredients such as lycopene. Due to high water content and water activity, watermelon fruit is susceptible to microbial and enzymatic deterioration. Thus, drying fruit juices into powders has been one of the common methods used to preserve the fruit. A study was conducted to produce watermelon powders using spray dryer and freeze dryer techniques. The major concern is to produce high-quality watermelon fruit powders. Four watermelon extract samples were used on two concentrations of maltodextrin, which were 5% and 13% towards spray drying and freeze-drying technique. The powders were analysed for water content, water activity, colour, and solubility. Results demonstrated that the water activity of watermelon powder using the spray drying technique is less than freeze-drying (0.23-0.27 and 0.44-0.47, respectively). The colour analysis showed that freeze-dried watermelon powder has higher redness (a* value), and yellowness (b* value) than the spray dried powder. The water content of the watermelon powder showed that spray-drying yields lower water content than freeze-drying techniques for both 5% (w/w) and 13% (w/w) of maltodextrin. The solubility of the watermelon powder showed that freeze-drying has a higher solubility time than spray drying. The study found that the spray drying technique is the preferable method to preserve and producing high quality watermelon powder.

The Protective Anticancer Effect of Natural Lycopene Supercritical CO2 Watermelon Extracts in Adenocarcinoma Lung Cancer Cells.

Carotenoids may have different effects on cancer and its progression. The safety of carotenoid supplements was evaluated in vitro on human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) adenocarcinoma A549 cells by the administration of three different oleoresins containing lycopene and other lipophilic phytochemicals, such as tocochromanols. The oleoresins, obtained by the supercritical CO2 green extraction technology from watermelon (Lyc W), gấc(Lyc G) and tomato (Lyc T) and chlatrated in α-cyclodextrins, were tested in comparison to synthetic lycopene (Lyc S), by cell cycle, Annexin V-FITC/PI, clonogenic test, Mytosox, intracellular ROS, Western Blot for NF-kB and RT-PCR and ELISA for IL-8. The extracts administered at the same lycopene concentration (10 µM) showed conflicting behaviors: Lyc W, with the highest lycopene/tocochromanols ratio, significantly increased cell apoptosis, mitochondrial stress, intracellular ROS, NF-kB and IL-8 expression and significantly decreased cell proliferation, whereas Lyc G and Lyc T significantly increased only cell proliferation. Lyc S treatment was ineffective. The highest amount of lycopene in Lyc W was able to counteract and revert the cell survival effect of tocochromanols supporting the importance of evaluating the lycopene bio-availability and the real effect of antioxidant tocochromanols’ supplementation which may not only have no anticancer benefits but may even increase cancer aggressivity.

Evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of plant extracts on Escherichia coli and Candida albicans

This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial activity of watermelon extracts of Teucrium polium and Citrullus colocynthis on Escherichia coli and Candida albicans isolated from women's Urinary tract infections. T. polium and C. colocynthis were collected from the Sistan region of Iran. Extraction was performed with ethyl acetate, methanol, acetone, and ethanol solvents using a rotary apparatus. E. coli strains were isolated from urinary infections. The minimum inhibitory concentration and the Minimum Bactericidal Concentration were prepared by dilution method in the well. The lowest inhibitory concentration of C. colocynthis ethyl acetate extract was equal to 3.1 ppm, in which 2 strains were inhibited. In comparison, the highest inhibitory concentration was 100 ppm, in which one strain was inhibited in this concentration. The lowest inhibitory concentration of T. polium ethyl acetate extract of E. coli was 3.1 ppm, with 2 strains inhibited. In comparison, the highest inhibitory concentration was 50 ppm, with one strain at this concentration. This study showed that the lower inhibitory concentration of C. colocynthis ethyl acetate extract against C. albicans was 25 ppm. The lowest inhibitory concentration of T.polium methanol extract against C. albicans was 12.5 ppm, which was unilaterally inhibited in this concentration. According to the obtained results and the increasing resistance of bacteria to chemical antibiotics, it is suggested that with further studies on this plant, the antibacterial compounds of this plant can be used in the treatment of bacteria.
 

The effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of watermelon and Persian melon rind on kidney stone prevention in male Wistar rats: Alternative medicine and the role of physician and nurse

Introduction: Both watermelon and Persian melon extracts have various pharmacological properties like anti-diabetic, anti-viral, anti-cancer, and anti-urolithiasis effects. Objectives: The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of watermelon and Persian melon rind on kidney stone prevention in male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Fifty-six Wister rats were randomly divided into seven groups and treated for 28 days. The first group (healthy control) and the second group (negative control) received drinking water and water containing 1% ethylene glycol, respectively. The third and fourth groups, received 100 mg/kg/d hydroalcoholic extract of watermelon rind and Persian melon rind, respectively in addition to 1% ethylene glycol. The fifth and sixth groups, received 400 mg/kg/d hydroalcoholic extract of watermelon rind and Persian melon rind, respectively in addition to 1% ethylene glycol. The seventh group received 0.5 mEq/kg/d potassium citrate in addition to 1% ethylene glycol for prevention and treatment of kidney stone. A 24-hour urine collection was conducted to determine the levels of sodium, calcium, uric acid, oxalate and citrate concentration. Histological study of calcium oxalate crystals was also performed. The serum levels of urea, creatinine, uric acid, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, SGPT (serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase), SGOT (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase), total antioxidant capacity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) of blood were determined accordingly. Results: In the present study, administration of high-dose extract of watermelon and Persian melon rind (400 mg/kg/d) and potassium citrate showed significant changes in variables of sodium, calcium, uric acid, citrate, urine volume (P<0.01), blood creatinine, blood uric acid, blood calcium, and serum SGPT (P<0.05). The histological study of calcium oxalate crystals showed a significant reduction in oxalate levels in all prevention groups. Conclusion: The extracts of watermelon and Persian melon rind are effective in preventing calcium oxalate stones by decreasing the levels of oxalate, sodium, and calcium and increasing citrate levels and urine volume and affecting the total antioxidant capacity. Persian melon rind extract was more effective than potassium citrate and watermelon rind extract in reducing urine sodium. High-dose watermelon rind extract showed similar effects as potassium citrate.

Antimicrobial Effects of Ethanol, Methanol and Ethyl Acetate Teucrium polium and Citrullus colocynthis extract on Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common pathogen in a wide range of infections, from urinary tract infections to bacteremia. Intrinsic resistance to antimicrobial agents in this bacterium worsens the condition of the treatment of infections caused by it. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial effects of ethanol, methanol, and ethyl acetate Teucrium polium Extract and Citrullus colocynthis on a p. aeruginosa isolated from Zabol hospital. P. aeruginosa specimens were collected from Zabol city. Plant extracts were prepared using a rotary machine and the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum trace concentration were determined by microdilution method. The lowest inhibitory concentration of methanolic extract of C. colocynthis against p. aeruginosa was 1.25 mg / ml while the lowest inhibitory concentration of ethyl acetate extract of C. colocynthis was 0.62 mg / ml, two strains were inhibited in this concentration and the highest inhibitory concentration was 5 mg, 6 strains of bacteria in this concentration has been restrained. The results of this study showed that watermelon extract of T. polium Extract and C. colocynthis have a significant antibacterial effect. Extract from this plant can be used to deal with specific pathogenic bacteria.
 

Investigating the effectiveness of Watermelon extract-zinc ions for steel alloy corrosion mitigation in sodium chloride solution

In the present study, the green-renewable Watermelon extract (WME):Zn inhibitive complexes were introduced in order to reduce the mild steel (MS) corrosion in a 3.5% sodium chloride (NaCl) solution. The chemistry of WME:Zn compounds were probed via the Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopies and the results displayed successful interactions between the WME and Zn. The WME:Zn complex anti-corrosion impact and protection mechanism were discovered by EIS and Tafel analyses during 72 h exposure to the neutral chloride-type solution, respectively. The test results confirmed that the WME:Zn controlled 96% of MS corrosion in the saline solution with the help of mixed-type interactions. The immersed samples were examined by field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) (equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS)) and the structures of the deposited oxides were assessed by grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) techniques, that confirmed the WME:Zn protective layer generation over the MS substrate. The atomic force microscope (AFM) displayed the generation of the high smooth layer with lower heterogeneities and the contact angle (CA) results proved the semi-hydrophilic behavior of the inhibited samples.

Effectiveness of watermelon extract in reduction of blood pressure among hypertensive clients in selected villages

Effectiveness of watermelon extract in reduction of blood pressure among hypertensive clients in selected villages

Synthesizing of Zeolite Particle Using Alkaline Plant Extract

The study explored the hydrothermal synthesis of zeolite using kaolin clay precursor in the presence of three different solvents namely, garlic extract, watermelon extract and 2M NaOH solution, with the view of testing their efficacy and potency for green synthesis. Before the zeolitization, the kaolin precursor was activated at a temperature of 850°C to produce metakaolin. The crystallization was achieved in an oven at a temperature of 90°C for 12 hours. The final product is grounded to a fine powder and subsequently undergo testing and characterization via X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopes (FESEM) methods. The purity and grade of the synthesized products vary accordingly with the suitability of the reaction solvent. The synthesized product using a solvent of watermelon plant extract was able to produce zeolite LTA of a good grade. However, the presence of secondary phases informed the effect of the accompanied impurities that might originate from the kaolin precursor or the solvent. The result also portrays the possibility of obtaining a well crystalline zeolite from the Malaysian kaolin without using any structural directing agent or chemical solvents.

PENYULUHAN FORMULASI SEDIAAN SERBUK TABUR PERONA PIPI EKSTRAK ETANOL BUAH SEMANGKA (Citrullus lanatus)

One of the fruits in Indonesia that can be used in the cosmetic sector is watermelon. Its red color indicates the high content of lycopene, a natural pigment as a coloring agent in decorative cosmetic formulations, especially blusher. The purpose of this study was to determine whether watermelon extract can be used as a dye in blusher preparations and to determine the formulation of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) blusher does not cause skin irritation when used. The extract was obtained by maceration using 96% ethanol. The blush formula uses dye from watermelon with a concentration of 15%, 20%, and 25%. The evaluation of preparations includes homogeneity, organoleptic, irritation test, pH test. The results showed that homogeneity, organolepti, and pH of the preparation remained stable for 14 days of storage. The results of the irritation test did not show any irritation.

Preliminary Study on the Effect of Methanolic Extract of Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Rind on Prednisolone Suppressed Immunity in Male Wistar Rats

Citrullus lanatus thumb (Cucurbitaceae) commonly called watermelon is widely consumed in this part of the world as food and medicine. This study was carried out to examine the effect of methanolic extract of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) rind on prednisolone suppressed immunity in male wistar rats. A total of 20 male wistar rats weighing 150-294g were used in 4 groups with five rats each. Group 1, the control group was given distilled water and feed, Group 2 was given 200 mg/kg body weight of methanolic extract of watermelon rind, Group 3 rats were given 2.5 mg/kg body weight of prednisolone and Group 4 rats were given 2.5 mg/kg body weight of prednisolone and 200 mg/kg body weight of methanolic extract of watermelon rind. Prednisolone and the methanolic extract of watermelon rind were administered orally for a period of 30 days. Blood samples were collected by cardio puncture from the rats for white blood cell (WBC), lymphocyte, and granulocyte and monocyte counts at the end of the experiment. The data were statistically analysed using one-way ANOVA (Analysis of variance). Data were considered significant at p<0.05. The results obtained showed that methanolic extract of watermelon rind caused a significant increasen in immune function of rats when compared with the control and immune suppressed rats.

Stability enhancement of lycopene in Citrullus lanatus extract via nanostructured lipid carriers.

Lycopene is one of naturally occurring carotenoids in plants including watermelon (Citrullus lanatus). Heat, light, and oxygen effect on lycopene isomerization and degradation. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are drug delivery system which can enhance the stability of active compound. Therefore, this study aimed to develop watermelon extract loaded in NLCs for lycopene stability improvement. The NLCs were prepared using a hot homogenization technique. Cocoa butter was used as solid lipid. Grape seed oil was used as liquid lipid. Span® 80 and Plantasens® HE20 were used as an emulsifier. The selected unloaded NLCs contained solid lipid to liquid lipid at the ratio of 3:1 and 10% (w/w) of total lipid. The particle size of watermelon extract‐loaded NLCs (WH‐loaded NLCs) was 130.17 ± 0.72 nm with low PDI and high zeta potential. It also presented high entrapment efficiency. For stability study, the WH‐NLC3 could enhance stability and maintain lycopene content after stability test. It exhibited the highest values of lycopene content (83.26 ± 2.30%) when stored at 4°C. It also possessed a prolonged release pattern over 48 hr. Therefore, the NLCs could improve stability and release profile of lycopene from watermelon extract.

Green route of silver nanoparticles synthesis using watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) fruit extract for mercury ions detection

In this paper, we report the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using a reductant of fruit extract of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), and its application for mercury ions detection. Silver nanoparticles were made from small amount of silver nitrate, assisted with sunlight irradiation. After 30 minutes of irradiation, the yellowish-brown silver nanoparticles were formed with peak absorbance at 420 nm wavelength. The formed silver nanoparticles were then tested to various alkaline, alkaline earth and transition metals. Most of the metals has no effect to the silver nanoparticles except for mercury ions that change the color of silver nanoparticles to colorless. Therefore, silver nanoparticles are selective to detect mercury ions in aqueous solution. Compared to the reference method, the developed colorimetry method for mercury ions detection was accurate up to 99.38%.

Nutritional and antioxidant potential of seeds from two Cucurbitaceae species from Senegal

Cucurbits are largely grown in tropical and subtropical areas for nutritional and medicinal purposes. In Senegal, two species, watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo), are cultivated and their use include consumption of flesh or the whole fruit. In general, people don’t give importance to seeds which can have nutritional properties of great interest. Hence, the relevance of this study whose objective is to assess the nutritional and therapeutic properties of seeds. For that purpose, the seeds of watermelon and pumpkin were air-dried, manually shelled, ground, and subjected to assays including physicochemical determination, characterization of oils, phytochemical screening and antioxidant analysis. Proteins (28.46 - 32.85 %), fat (36.3 - 39.7 %) and carbohydrates (23.6 - 13.9 %) were the main chemical components found in watermelon and pumpkin seeds. Micro-elements such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, calcium, and iron were also found with potassium showing the highest levels as 1026.07 and 635.00 mg/100 g for watermelon and pumpkin, respectively. Magnesium and phosphorous were the following minerals in terms of level content. The unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) were predominant in seed oils with the linoleic acid most representative as 73.01 and 35.90% for watermelon and pumpkin, respectively. From the saturated fatty acids (SFAs), the palmitic acid was the most important. Phytochemical components in seeds include the presence of alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, and tannins in the ethanolic extracts of pumpkin and watermelon seeds. Regarding to the radical scavenging activity, relatively close values have been obtained for fractions from the ethanolic watermelon extract, the aqueous fraction showing the highest antioxidant activity (26.82%). For pumpkin, the highest values were registered for ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions as 36.17 and 35.36%, respectively. Therefore, seeds from watermelons and pumpkin cultivated in Senegal exhibited interesting nutritional and antioxidant properties which argue in favor of their use to overcome malnutrition issues.

Ameliorative Effect of Aqueous Seed Extract of <i>Citrullus Lanatus</i> (Water Melon) on Liver Function Parameters and Markers of Oxidative Stress in Lead Treated Rats

Extensive and unmonitored use of lead in developing and industrialized countries is posing a serious threat to human health. Prolonged exposure of a sub-lethal dose of this toxicant is closely related to its accumulation in various soft tissues and its interference with bio elements that hamper several physiological processes. The study was designed to investigate the potential effect of aqueous seed extract of Citrullus lanatus on liver function parameters and oxidative stress markers. Forty healthy albino rats of both sexes were randomly divided into four groups: Group 1: Normal, Group 2 Lead untreated, dose 15mg/kg lead acetate. Group 3 and 4 were dosed 15mg/kg lead acetate and aqueous seed extract 50mg/kg and 100 mg/kg respectively for 21 days. The present study revealed that AST, ALT and ALP levels were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in lead induced untreated group compared to control. There was no observed difference in serum total proteins (P > 0.05) among all the groups but albumin, significantly decreased (P < 0.05) compared to control. Serum vitamin A and E concentration were shown to have decreased in lead untreated groups while Vitamin C level remained unchanged. The level of GSH and catalase activity increased in the treatment groups with decreased in MDA level. It is therefore suggested that aqueous seed extract of water melon might be rich in antioxidants, hence effective in preventing lipid peroxidation.
 Keywords: Antioxidants, Citrullus lanatus, Lead, Oxidative stress.