Impact of Citrullus Lanatus seed aqueous extract on brain, heart, and lung damage caused by codeine in Albino rats

Abstract

ABSTRACT                             

Background: Watermelon seeds (Citrullus lanatus) are nutrient-rich and possess beneficial phytochemicals with potential medicinal applications. Codeine, a synthetic opioid, treats pain, cough, and diarrhea but carries high risks such as addiction and organ damage. This study investigated the protective effects of Citrullus lanatus seed extract on the brain, heart, and lung tissues of codeine-pretreated Wistar albino rats.

Methods: The experiment involved 24 rats divided into six groups. Group A (Control) received only standard pelleted feed and water. Groups B, C, D, E, and F received 20 mg/kg body weight of codeine daily for 14 days, followed by treatment with 250 mg/kg body weight of seed extract, 500 mg/kg body weight of pulp extract, 1000 mg/kg body weight of seed extract, or silymarin, respectively, for an additional 14 days. After which the animals were euthanasia using chloroform, the organs excised for histological examination. Histopathological changes were assessed, and data analyzed using SPSS version 20. 

Results: findings showed significant difference (p < 0.05) between groups, indicating that the watermelon seed extract potentially ameliorated codeine-induced organ damage. Control group tissues appeared normal, while the negative control group exhibited inflammatory lung tissue damage. Experimental groups showed reduced or no lung tissue damage, suggesting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of the extract. Codeine's brain impact was minimal, possibly due to the protective blood-brain barrier and acute exposure.

Conclusion: Citrullus lanatus seed extract demonstrated protective effects against codeine-induced lung toxicity and possibly brain and heart damage in Wistar albino rats.