Abstract

Allium test carried out on different concentrations of raw Azadirachta indica (neem) leaf extract revealed induction of chromosomal aberrations in the genome of Allium cepa. Chromosomal aberrations such as scattering of chromosomes at anaphase, anaphase bridge, chromosome fragmentation, laggards and endopolyploidization were observed in onion roots treated with 0.1, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.5 kg/L concentrations of the neem leaf extract. Highest percentages (39.41%) of chromosomal aberrations were recorded for 0.5 kg/L of the neem leaf extract treatment, while 0.1 kg/L of it gave the lowest percentage (5.56%). No chromosomal aberration was observed in the control. Observations made in this study call for caution in the consumption of raw leaf extract of neem for treatment of ailment. Low concentration and wide spacing of dosage are therefore suggested for the use of A. indica (neem) leaf extract in traditional medicine in order to prevent the risk of genetic accidents.

Key words: Azadirachta indica (neem), Allium cepa (L), chromosomal aberrations, traditional medicine.