The Impact of Arachis Hypogaea Diet on Malaria Parasite Resistance and Haematology in Mice Infected with Plasmodium berghei

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of different Arachis hypogaea dietary preparations on parasite load, haematological indices, and physiological responses in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice. Forty-five albino mice were randomly assigned to five groups: normal control, infected untreated control, roasted groundnut, boiled groundnut, and a combination of roasted and boiled groundnut diets. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA at p > 0.05. Infection resulted in a high parasite load in the untreated group, with no significant difference compared to the boiled and combined diet groups. However, the roasted groundnut group showed a reduction in parasite load and relatively higher chemosuppressive activity, although differences were not statistically significant. White blood cell counts increased significantly following infection, and dietary treatments did not restore normal levels. Similarly, red blood cell counts and packed cell volume were significantly reduced in infected mice. The roasted groundnut diet moderately improved PCV compared to other treatments but did not restore it to normal levels. Weight loss was most pronounced in untreated mice, while roasted groundnut intake showed slight mitigation. No significant effects on temperature regulation were observed. Overall, A. hypogaea diets did not significantly improve parasitemia or haematological parameters, indicating limited therapeutic value in malaria management. ImportanceThis study is of significant importance due to its contribution to the ongoing search for accessible, affordable, and nutritionally based supportive interventions in malaria management. Malaria remains a major public health burden, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where increasing resistance of Plasmodium species to conventional antimalarial drugs continues to undermine control efforts. By investigating the effects of Arachis hypogaea (groundnut), a widely consumed and locally available food resource, this research explores a practical dietary approach that could complement existing malaria treatment strategies. In summary, this research is important because it bridges nutrition, parasitology, and public health, offering practical insights that could inform both scientific advancement and real-world malaria management strategies.