The Effect of Tender Coconut Water on Cardiovascular Changes (Heart) Induced by Secondhand Cigarette Smoke in Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Second Hand Smoke (SHS) exposes nonsmokers to harmful chemicals that contribute to cardiovascular diseases, including endothelial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress. Tender Coconut Water (TCW), rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, has been suggested as a potential natural intervention to mitigate SHS-induced cardiovascular damage.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of TCW on structural and physiological changes in the heart and aorta of rats exposed to varying doses of SHS.

Methodology: Thirty-five male Wistar rats were divided into seven groups (n=5 per group). Group A served as the control, while Groups B, C, and D was exposed to 5, 10, and 15 Stick of Cigarette (SoC) smoke, respectively, twice daily, six days a week. Groups E, F, and G received the same SHS exposure as Groups B, C, and D but were additionally treated with 4 mL of TCW daily twice daily for four weeks. Blood pressure and body weight were monitored weekly, and at the end of the study, histological and biochemical, analyses were performed on the heart to assess collagen deposition and Nitric Oxide (NO) levels and structural changes in the heart.

Result: The results demonstrated that SHS exposure led to significant structural changes, including increased collagen deposition, and reduced NO bioavailability, contributing to hypertension and cardiovascular dysfunction. Rats in Groups E and F, which received TCW, exhibited partial improvements in blood pressure regulation, NO levels, and reduced fibrosis, particularly at lower SHS exposure levels. However, TCW was less effective in mitigating cardiovascular damage in rats exposed to high SHS doses (Group G), suggesting that its protective effects may be dose-dependent.

Conclusion: In conclusion, TCW shows potential as a natural cardioprotective agent against SHS induced cardiovascular damage, particularly at lower exposure levels. However, its efficacy at higher SHS doses remains limited. Further research is needed to explore optimal dosing, long-term effects, and mechanisms underlying its protective properties.

Keywords: Tender Coconut Water; Second Hand Smoke; Cardiovascular Health; Nitric Oxide; Blood Pressure; Fibrosis

Citation

Adedokun AJ, Oladapo OO. The Effect of Tender Coconut Water on Cardiovascular Changes (Heart) Induced by Secondhand Cigarette Smoke in Male Wistar Rats. WebLog J Anat. wjat.2026.i0205. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22540260