Remedial Effects of Cydonia oblonga Miller (quince) Extract and Powder on Enhancing the Anemia and Levels of Antioxidant Enzymes in the Blood Serum of Rats

BACKGROUND: Cydonia oblonga Miller (quince) has been reported to have many antioxidant and immune system-stimulating properties. PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of quince aqueous extract (QAE) and compare it with the effect of quince powder (QP) in different proportions on strengthening the immune system and levels of antioxidant enzymes in the blood serum of rats at a dose of (5 and 10 ml orally / day of the extract and 10% and 20% of the powder in food). METHOD: Thirty male albino rats (about 170±10 grams) were used in this study. Then they were divided into five equal groups (6 rats each). The first considered negative control .The groups that were fed the basic diet throughout the experiment, the other groups (24 rats), including the second and third group they were fed a basal diet + oral doses of 5 and 10 ml orally/day of QAE for (4 weeks). Then the fourth and fifth groups were fed a basal diet + 10% and 20% of QP, and a complete blood cell count was done. RESULTS: The levels of (HB, HCT, red blood cells and PLT) showed significant increases compared to negative levels. (The control group). White blood cells showed a decrease. For antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, GPx and GSH) was a significant increase compared to the control (-ve), especially in the group that consumed QP by 10%. A unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: This study indicates that the theory used in the study has been validated. The results showed an improvement in Hb, HCT, and RBC levels compared to other treatment groups, and a decrease in WBC. CONCLUSION: The conclusion is that eating quince has a protective effect on oxidation and enhancing the body’s immunity reflecting this in public health recommendations.