Improved Cerebellar Structure and Neuronal Restoration by Combined Extracts of Ginger, Garlic, and Turmeric in Lead-Exposed Rats: A Histological and Morphometric Study

Abstract

Background: Heavy metal toxicity, particularly from lead exposure, poses significant neurodevelopmental risks, with the cerebellum being a key target. This study evaluated the ameliorative potential of a phytobiotic formulation comprising aqueous extracts of Zingiber officinale (ginger), Allium sativum (garlic), and Curcuma longa (turmeric) on lead-induced cerebellar damage in Wistar rats. Methods: Twenty-five (25) adult male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups (n = 5). The normal control group recieved water and feed ad-libitun. Lead neurotoxicity was induced via oral administration of lead acetate (150 mg/kg/day) for 14 days. Groups 3–5 received combined phytobiotic extracts at 300, 400, and 500 mg/kg body weight, respectively, co-administered with lead acetate. Extracts were prepared by aqueous maceration of authenticated plant materials, concentrated by evaporation, and administered via oral gavage for 14 days. Following treatment, cerebellar tissues were harvested, fixed in 10% buffered formalin, and processed for hematoxylin and eosin (H\&E) staining. Morphometric analysis of Purkinje cell count and morphology was conducted using ImageJ software. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc test (SPSS v26). Results: Lead exposure resulted in significant loss and shrinkage of Purkinje cells, cortical disorganization, and reduced cell count (p < 0.05). Co-administration of the phytobiotic formulation, particularly at moderate and high doses, markedly preserved cerebellar cytoarchitecture and significantly improved Purkinje cell density and morphology (p < 0.05) compared to the lead-only group. Conclusion: The aqueous phytobiotic mixture of ginger, garlic, and turmeric confers dose-dependent neuroprotection against lead-induced cerebellar damage, likely due to their synergistic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These findings support their therapeutic potential in environmental neurotoxicity.