Effect of Oral Spirulina Platensis Supplementation on Hematological Parameter in Long Evans Rats

Abstract

Background: Spirulina Platensis, a filamentous cyanobacterium, is a nutrient-rich microalga with high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. It has been associated with hematological and metabolic benefits, including enhanced erythropoiesis, antioxidant activity, and lipid modulation. This study evaluated the effects of oral Spirulina platensis supplementation on hematological parameters in Long-Evans rats. Materials and Methods: Forty-two Long-Evans rats of both sexes were randomly assigned to two groups (n=21 each): control (normal saline) and Spirulina Platensis supplementation (400 mg/kg body weight) for 28 days. Rats were housed under standard laboratory conditions and acclimatized for seven days prior to the experiment. Blood samples were collected via the retro-orbital plexus 24 hours after the last administration. Hematological parameters (RBC, HGB, WBC, MCV, MCH, MCHC, PLT) were assessed using an automated analyzer. Data was analyzed using independent samples t-test, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Supplementation with Spirulina platensis (400 mg) significantly improved hematological parameters in rats compared to controls. WBC, RBC, and HGB increased significantly (WBC: 21.28 ± 4.30 vs 24.59 ± 2.95, p=0.007; RBC: 6.79 ± 0.87 vs 8.93 ± 0.89, p < 0.001; HGB: 14.39 ± 1.64 vs 20.69 ± 2.79, p <0.001). Significant increases were also observed in MCV, MCH, MCHC (all p < 0.001) and platelet counts (695.32 ± 137.64 vs 787.71 ± 143.67, p=0.040), indicating enhanced red and white blood cell indices and platelet levels. Conclusion: Oral supplementation of Spirulina platensis at a dose of 400 mg/kg body weight for 28 days significantly improved red blood cell indices in Long-Evans rats. Specifically, RBC count, hemoglobin concentration (HGB), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) were markedly increased compared with the control group, indicating enhanced erythropoietic activity. These findings suggest that Spirulina platensis can positively influence hematological health and may serve as a functional dietary supplement to support red blood cell production and overall oxygen-carrying capacity in animals.

Eastern Med Coll J. 2026; 11 (1): 42-46