Effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Virgin Coconut Oil Combination on Hematologic Profiles in a Rat Model of Preeclampsia
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Abstract
Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy marked by systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction. Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) and Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) are natural antioxidants with potential therapeutic benefits. This study aims to determine the effect of EVOO, VCO, and their combination on blood pressure and hematologic profiles in a preeclampsia-induced rat model using N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). A total of 25 pregnant Wistar rats were divided into five groups: negative control (PBS), positive control (L-Name 75 mg/kgBW), EVOO (4.5 mL/kg BW/day), VCO (4.45 mL/kg BW/day), and EVOO+VCO (2.25 mL each/ kg BW/day). The treatment was given orally from gestational day 1, and L-NAME was injected intraperitoneally from day 9 to 18 of gestation. The data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Results showed that the EVOO+VCO group reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure more than the positive control and single-treatment groups (p<0.001). Hematological parameters also differed significantly (p<0.001): hemoglobin (12.34 ± 0.67 g/dL), erythrocyte count (6.29 ± 0.52 × 10⁶/μL), and platelet count (1310.80 ± 67.33 × 10³/μL) increased, whereas leukocyte count decreased (8.06 ± 0.37 × 10³/μL). Erythrocyte indices also improved. Overall, combined EVOO and VCO showed greater protective effects than either treatment alone, suggesting potential benefit for blood pressure control and hematological disturbances associated with preeclampsia.
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