The Effect of Hydroethanolic Extract of Pomegranate Peels and High-intense Interval Training on C-reactive Protein, Catalase and Superoxide Dismutase in Rats

Aims: Heavy exercise can damage the immune system by oxidative stress. The role of herbal supplements during and after strenuous exercise is unknown. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine hydroethanolic extract of pomegranate peels and a period of high-intensity interval training on the C-reactive protein and antioxidant enzyme activity in rats. Methods & Materials: This research was an experimental study. The statistical population was rats, of which 36 Wistar rats were randomly selected and were divided into 4 groups (control, hydroethanolic extract of pomegranate peels, high-intensity interval training, and hydroethanolic extract of pomegranate peels + high-intensity interval training). After 8 weeks of interval training and supplementation, blood samples were taken from the rats. Then, the C-reactive protein and the activity of the antioxidant enzymes of superoxide dismutase and catalase were assessed by 1-way analysis of variance.  Findings: The results showed that in the group of hydroethanolic extract of pomegranate peels + high-intensity interval training, the superoxide dismutase (P=0.000) and catalase (P=0.003) significantly increased, and the C-reactive protein (P=0.002) decreased. Tukey’s test confirmed the significance of these changes in the hydroethanolic extract of pomegranate peels+high-intensity interval training compared to the control group. Conclusion: The combination of high-intensity interval training and hydroethanolic extract of pomegranate peels could strengthen the immune system, potentially enhances athletic performance, and accelerates recovery after exercises. The hydroethanolic extract of pomegranate peels and high-interval training synergistically boost the immune system and increase physical endurance.