Elettaria cardamomum Effects on Sleep-Deprived Induced Chronic Fatigue in Rats

Background and objective: Fatigue is a complex condition impacting both physical and mental performance, classified into acute and chronic types. Chronic fatigue can arise from prolonged sleep deprivation, negatively affecting cognitive function and quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-fatigue effects of Elletaria cardamomum (cardamom), in a rat model of chronic fatigue syndrome induced by sleep deprivation. Method: Hydro-alcoholic extract of cardamom fruits was prepared using maceration method and standardized as caffeic acid content by HPLC method. The study involved 30 male Wistar rats divided into five groups: sham, model and treatment groups receiving cardamom hydro-alcoholic extract at doses of 75, 150, and 300 mg/kg/day. The rats underwent 21 days of sleep deprivation using a modified multiple platform method. Physical endurance was assessed through a forced-weighted swimming test, and blood samples were analyzed for various biochemical markers. Results: Cardamom extract containing 0.192% caffeic acid didn’t significantly increase swimming time compared to the model group. However, there was a notable reduction in lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase levels, especially at 150 mg/kg, indicating decreased muscle damage. Antioxidant enzyme levels (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase) increased in treatment groups, particularly at 75 mg/kg. Total antioxidant capacity elevated significantly, while malondialdehyde level, indicative of oxidative stress, decreased. Conclusion: Cardamom extract effectively reduced biochemical markers of fatigue and oxidative stress. It could be used as a supportive supplement to alleviate oxidative stress-related fatigue.