EFFECTS OF GARLIC ON SOME HAEMATOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS

Influence of garlic on some haematological and plasma biochemical parameters were studied in rats that had different doses and duration of garlic pretreatment. 200mg dose of garlic per day for 30 days did not have any significant change( P>0.05) in the red blood cell count and packed cell volume. However at 100mg per day for the same duration, garlic increased red blood cell count and packed cell volume significantly (P<0.05). The same dose (100mg) of garlic similarly and significantly increased total white blood cell count (TWBC), neutrophil and lymphocyte counts (P<0.05). Garlic thus promote leucopoiesis and increases neutrophil : lymphocyte ratio. Garlic increased sodium and potassium serum levels and may be a good factor in the maintenance of electrolyte balance.