ABSTRACT
Alcoholism is a pervasive issue with significant health, social, and economic implications worldwide, leading to numerous diseases and adverse outcomes. Azadirachta indica, commonly known as 'neem,' is a versatile pantropical plant with a multitude of applications, including medicinal properties. This study aimed to investigate the gastric ameliorative effects of Azadirachta indica on alcohol-induced gastric 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. Key findings and outcomes of the study indicate a consistent increase in body weight across all groups, with alcohol not significantly affecting body weight. Alcohol did not significantly impact stomach weight, suggesting that it does not have a direct effect on this parameter. Alcohol caused a slight increase in total protein levels, although this increase was not statistically significant. Treatment with alcohol led to a significant increase in MDA levels, indicating oxidative damage to cellular lipids. Azadirachta indica was found to reverse this increase, potentially due to its antioxidant properties. Alcohol reduced SOD activity, which indicates compromised antioxidant defenses. Azadirachta indica treatment was associated with increased SOD levels, possibly due to complex interactions with cellular processes. Alcohol induction did not significantly affect catalase activity compared to the control group. Alcohol significantly reduced GPx activity, suggesting impaired protection against oxidative stress. Azadirachta indica treatment reversed this reduction, potentially enhancing the cellular response to oxidative damage. Rats treated with alcohol displayed gastric ulceration extending to the muscularis mucosa and submucosa, indicative of peptic ulcer formation. Treatment with 250mg/kg of Azadirachta indica ameliorated this effect, highlighting its potential as an anti-ulcer agent. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the hepatoprotective potential of Azadirachta indica against alcohol-induced liver damage. Lower doses of Azadirachta indica appeared to be more effective in mitigating alcohol-induced damage. Further research is recommended to explore the underlying mechanisms and safety of Azadirachta indica in greater detail. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the therapeutic applications of this versatile plant.
