Assessing the Genotoxic Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss), Cosmetics and Alomo Bitters (Alcoholic Drink) Using Allium Test

Abstract

Genotoxic effect of aqueous leaf extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) NZI, Alomo bitters alcoholic drink (ABAD) and cosmetics (Baby-face facial cleanser, BFFC; Peau clair body lotion, PCBL and Vanilla essence roll-on, VERO) were assessed using Allium test. The root tips were treated with serial dilutions of the test chemicals at 20%, 40%, 60% and 100% for 3 hours along with the control, hydrolyzed in 18% HCl, squashed and stained with FLP orcein. Aberrations such as C-metaphase, precocious, stickiness (sticky metaphase), ghost cells, nuclear lesions, chromosome erosion, laggards, binucleated cells, anaphase bridges and vagrant chromosomes were observed in the root tips studied. These products are used widely by humans around the world and Nigeria in particular. Although, the products elicited varying chromosomal abnormalities, they also have beneficial effects. Also, the products showed genotoxic effects even at low concentrations on Allium cepa root cells. In a long run, the use of these products may cause serious damages on the chromosome of plants, animals and humans. More effort is required to actually ascertain the active constituents of these products that elicited the genotoxic effects. Constant use and consumption of these products is therefore discouraged.