Possible Protective Effect of Spanish Black Radish on Hematological Parameters aganist Benzene - Induced Leukemia in Rats

Abstract

Background: The Spanish black radish, which is grown all over the world and is full of useful nutrients, helps in the therapy of many illnesses. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible protective effect of Spanish black radish extracts against benzene-induced leukemia in rats. Materials and Methods: A total of 35 rats were purchased from the animal house at the College of Pharmacy, University of Karbala, Iraq. Benzene was used for the induction of leukemia in experimental animals. An extract of black radish was set after mixing up 50 g of the finely powdered plant material with two solvents (500 mL of 100% ethanol or water). After leukemia induction, rats were randomly divided into seven groups: first group, negative control group; second group, positive control group; third group, (lack radish aqueous extract 100 mg/kg; fourth group, black radish aqueous extract 200 mg/kg; fifth group, black radish ethanol extract 100 mg/kg; sixth group, black radish ethanol extract 200 mg/kg; and seventh group, cyclophosphamide 5 mg/kg. Results: Leukemia induction resulted in a severe increase in the total leukocyte count and a severe decrease in red blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelet levels of the experimental animals. However, there were no significant differences between the negatively treated group and the benzene-treated group regarding platelet count. Posttreatment with Spanish black radish extracts, especially the aqueous plant extract, shows an improvement in blood profiles compared to the benzene-treated group. Conclusion: Our study indicates that Spanish black radish might be a promising natural, antileukemic source.