Comparative Study of Hematological and Renal Profiles in Rats Fed Hibiscus sabdariffa (Zobo) Drink Sweetened with Natural Versus Artificial Sugars
Owhonda Golden Chukwuemeka *
Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Wokocha Peter Gift
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Okari Karibo Amakiri
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Opusunju Boma Harris
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Rivers State University, Nkpolu Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Oluoha Uchechukwu Raphael
Department of Community Medicine, Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria and Department of Community Medicine, Madonna University, Elele, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Hibiscus sabdariffa (commonly known as "zobo") is widely consumed for its antioxidant, antihypertensive, and nephroprotective effects. However, the impact of sweeteners—natural (honey) vs. artificial (aspartame)—on these benefits remains underexplored. This study assessed hematological and renal changes in rats administered zobo drink sweetened with honey or aspartame for eight weeks. Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats were randomized into four groups (n=6): Control (distilled water), Zobo-only, Zobo + Honey, and Zobo + Aspartame. Hematological indices, serum urea and creatinine levels, and renal histopathology were analyzed using standard methods. Rats in the Zobo + Aspartame group showed significant reductions in RBC (27%), hemoglobin (25%), hematocrit (23%) and increases in serum urea (58%) and creatinine (78%) compared to controls (p < 0.01). Histological examination revealed glomerular atrophy and tubular necrosis. Zobo + Honey preserved hematologic and renal profiles comparable to controls. These findings suggest artificial sweeteners may attenuate zobo's benefits, whereas honey preserves them.
Keywords: Hibiscus sabdariffa, zobo, honey, aspartame, hematology, nephrotoxicity, wistar rats