Effects of Malayan Green Dwarf Coconut Water on Platelets, White Blood Cells, and Liver Morphology in Iron Dextran-Induced Hemochromatosis in Wistar Rats

Background and Objective: Iron overload, or hemochromatosis, is a pathological condition characterized by excessive iron deposition, leading to oxidative stress and organ damage. This study investigates the effects of Malayan Green Dwarf coconut water on hematological parameters and liver morphology in Wistar rats with iron dextran-induced hemochromatosis. Materials and Methods: Thirty Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups (n = 6 each): A negative control, a positive control (iron dextran-induced), and three treatment groups receiving 10, 20, and 30 mL/kg of Malayan Green Dwarf coconut water after iron overload induction. Hematological parameters (platelets, total white blood cells, and differentials) were analyzed, and liver tissues were examined histologically for morphological changes. Data were statistically analyzed using t-tests with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Iron overload resulted in reduced platelet count and lymphocytes while increasing white blood cell counts and inflammatory markers, though not statistically significant (p>0.05). Treatment with 10 mL/kg coconut water significantly reduced WBC count (p<0.05), while higher doses (20 and 30 mL/kg) preserved liver morphology by reducing iron deposition and hepatocellular damage. Conclusion: Malayan Green Dwarf coconut water exhibits potential hematoprotective and hepatoprotective effects in iron overload conditions. These findings suggest its role as a natural, cost-effective alternative for managing iron-induced toxicity, though further research is needed to confirm its mechanisms and clinical applicability.