The impact of an Arachis hypogaea-based diet on malaria resistance and hematological indices in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei

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This study evaluated the effects of different Arachis hypogaea dietary preparations on parasite load, hematological indices, and physiological responses in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice. Albino mice (n = 45) 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 analysis of variance; p < 0.05 indicated statistical significance. 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 packed cell volume 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 reduce parasitemia or improve hematological parameters, indicating limited therapeutic value for malaria management.