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EXPLORING THE ANTI-FATIGUE EFFECTS OF WATERMELON RIND: A NATURAL BOOST FOR ENDURANCE

MUKTI PRIASTOMO 1, AMIRAH ADLIA 2*, SAMSUL BAHRI 3, ROHAYATI 1, VALENTINA LUMBANTOBING 1, I KETUT ADNYANA 1

1 Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung Indonesia
2 Department of Pharmaceutical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung Indonesia
3 Department of Sport Science, School of Pharmacy, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung Indonesia

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Watermelon rind, often discarded as organic waste, contains significant levels of citrulline and arginine, particularly in its inner peel compared to the outer peel. This study aimed to quantify these amino acids in watermelon rind sourced from the Hulu Sungai Tengah region, South Kalimantan Province, and evaluate their potential anti-fatigue effects. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis revealed that the rind had higher citrulline (162.8 mg/g) and arginine levels the peel. Male Balb/C mice subjected to swimming tests after oral administration of watermelon rind demonstrated improved endurance, reduced blood lactate levels, and better maintenance of biochemical parameters related to fatigue compared to controls. These findings suggest that watermelon rind, rich in citrulline and arginine, could be a valuable source for supplements or nutraceutical products to enhance physical performance and health. Further research into cultivation and processing methods could unlock its economic potential and promote sustainable utilization.