Blessing NDUKA

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal with a long biological half-life that accumulates in vital organs, particularly the liver, causing oxidative stress and liver damage. Conventional treatments are expensive and often have side effects, creating a need for safer, affordable alternatives. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective potential of hydro-ethanolic extract of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) rind against cadmium-induced liver toxicity in Wistar rats. Twenty-five Wistar rats (104-196g) were divided into five groups: negative control (distilled water), positive control (cadmium chloride), standard treatment (cadmium + vitamin C), and two treatment groups receiving cadmium plus watermelon rind extract at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg respectively. After 60 days of oral administration, liver tissues were examined for histopathological changes, and body weight, hepatic cadmium levels, and relative liver weights were measured. Histological examination revealed normal liver architecture in all groups, with hepatocytes showing normal appearance without necrosis or inflammation. Extract-treated rats, especially at 500 mg/kg, maintained body weights similar to controls, suggesting protection against cadmium induced weight loss. Hepatic cadmium levels were lowest in the 500 mg/kg extract group, indicating enhanced metal elimination. Relative liver weights in extract-treated groups were similar to controls, preventing cadmium-induced liver enlargement. These findings demonstrate that watermelon rind extract provides hepatoprotection against cadmium toxicity, likely through antioxidant activity and metal chelation. The study supports watermelon rind as a cost effective, sustainable natural alternative for managing heavy metal toxicity and promotes the use of agricultural waste for therapeutic purposes.