Nutritional Composition of Garcinia pedunculata Roxb. Fruit and the Effects of its Chloroform Fraction on the Biochemical and Hematological Profiles of Mice
Résumé
Aims: This study aims to identify the composition and assess the impact of the chloroform fraction of G. pedunculata extracts on the hematological and biochemical markers in mice. The findings intend to provide dietary guidance and establish groundwork for subsequent studies. It will assess the proximate and mineral profile of G. pedunculata fruit extract and its effects on hematological and serum biochemical parameters in mice. Methodology: Fruit collected from Nakari, North Lakhimpur, was analyzed for moisture, ash, carbohydrate, protein, reducing sugar, and starch using standard methods. Mineral content was assessed by AAS. GC-MS identified volatile/semi-volatile components. Thirty-two mice (16 male, 16 female) were divided into four groups (n=8): normal control, vehicle (1% DMSO), and chloroform fraction of G. pedunculata at 100 or 250 mg/kg orally for 28 days. Serum analysis included creatinine, urea, electrolytes, liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin, while hematology evaluated RBC indices and platelets. Results: The dried extract was rich in carbohydrates and low in protein, with moisture at 21.4% and ash at 3.45%. Calcium predominated the minerals, followed by Na and Mg, and then Fe and Zn. GC-MS identified 11 components making up 60.9% TIC. Significant changes were observed in the potassium, sodium and alkaline phosphatase levels. In case of the hematological parameters, significant changes were observed in the MCV, MCHC, RDW-CV and platelet levels. No significant changes were seen in the rest of the biochemical and hematological parameters. Conclusion: G. pedunculata is a low-fat, carbohydrate-rich, calcium-dominant fruit. Twenty-eight-day dosing was well tolerated and may beneficially influence selected metabolic markers. The results provide a coherent baseline for future research on bioactive components and dose-response relationships and will inform the safe dietary application of this under-researched regional fruit.