ABSTRACT
Alcoholism is a significant cause of disease with serious social and economic implications. Alcohol abuse leads to various health issues, including mental disorders, liver cirrhosis, and cardiovascular diseases. Neem (Azadirachta indica) has been studied for its potential hepatoprotective effects, and some scientific studies have explored its relation to liver health Azadirachta indica, also known as neem, is a pantropical plant with diverse applications, valued for its religious, economic, medical, and decorative importance. This research aims to evaluate the effect of Azadirachta indica on alcohol-induced liver damage in adult Wistar rats. The study utilized thirty rats, divided into six groups, (A-F) consisting of 5 rats per group (n=5). Group A served as the control group, Group B received 1ml of 50% alcohol for 14 days, Group C received 250mg/kg of Azadirachta indica for 14 days, Group D received 500mg/kg of Azadirachta indica for 14 days, Group E Received 1ml of 50% alcohol for 14 days and was treated with 250mg/kg of Azadirachta indica for 14 days and finally Group F received 1ml of 50% alcohol for 14 days and was treated with 500mg/kg of Azadirachta indica for 14 days and administered various treatments of alcohol and Azadirachta indica. Results indicated a consistent increase in body weight across all groups, while alcohol did not significantly increase liver weight. However, Azadirachta indica at 250mg/kg demonstrated promising effects in mitigating alcohol-induced liver damage, leading to reduced necrosis, inflammation, vascular congestion, ulceration, and ductal epitheliosis. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the hepatoprotective properties of Azadirachta indica at a dose of 250mg/kg against alcohol induced liver damage in adult Wistar rats. Future research should focus on elucidating its underlying mechanisms and exploring alternative extraction methods such as methanolic extraction to enhance efficacy at the specified dosage.
