Authors: Saeed Kanwal , Naveed Akhter , Muhammad Kamran Ameer , Tahrim Ansar , Jazib Andleeb , Zafar Iqbal

Abstract

Background and Objective: Cigarette smoke contains nicotine that has numerous health hazards ranging from mild to life threatening morbidities. The health benefits of date palm against the toxic substances are well documented in the literature. This study is designed to investigate the effect of nicotine on body weight of mice and its amelioration by date palm pit powder (DPP).
Methods: Thirty two adult male albino mice were divided into four groups each having eight animals. Date’s pit were first soaked for 48 hours in cold distilled water and then dried by air convection drying method. DPP was administered by oral gavage. Control group ‘A’ was given saline 1.5 ml per kg for 15 days. The experimental groups were given 0.5 mg/kg nicotine intra-peritoneally for 15 days. For the next 30 days, Group C received 0.9% saline orally and Group D received 500 mg/kg of DPP orally. Solid food intake was measured daily and then calculated as per week intake.
Results: The reduction in mean animal weight and food intake of experimental groups on 15th day were statistically significant (P = 0.001) in comparison with that of the control. The mean animal weight and food intake significantly improved after 30 days in experimental groups D.
Conclusion: Nicotine administration to the albino mice significantly reduces their body weight and food intake which are gradually improved by the use of date palm pit powder.

Keywords: Nicotine, Body weight, Date palm pit powder, Mice