Evaluating the Effects of Curcuma longa and Azadirachta indica on Albino Rat Growth and Groundnut Aflatoxin Contamination

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of Curcuma longa  and Azadirachta indica  treatments on albino rat growth parameters and assessed aflatoxin contamination in stored groundnuts across Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A two-way ANOVA revealed significant weight variations in rats administered C. longa  doses (100–5000 mg/kg) over 21 days (P<0.001), with no significant treatment-duration interaction (P=0.494). Similarly, A. indica treatments demonstrated significant dose- and time-dependent weight changes (P<0.005), though interactions remained non-significant. Biochemical analyses indicated elevated alanine aminotransferase in A. indica high-dose groups (P<0.003) and reduced total protein (P<0.019), highlighting dose-specific metabolic impacts. Concurrently, aflatoxin analysis revealed widespread contamination in stored groundnuts, with total aflatoxin levels exceeding international safety thresholds (≤20 µg/kg) in 51.3% of samples. Nasarawa North recorded the highest mean total aflatoxin (37.93 µg/kg), while Toto LGA exhibited the highest prevalence (78.3%). Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) dominated contaminations, with 98.6% incidence in Nasarawa North. Moisture content (5.34±2.85% in Nasarawa North) showed no statistical correlation with aflatoxin levels (P>0.05). These findings underscore the efficacy of herbal treatments in modulating animal physiology and emphasize urgent public health concerns regarding aflatoxin contamination in Nigerian agricultural produce. Regulatory interventions and improved storage practices are critical to mitigate exposure risks. The study provides actionable insights for enhancing food safety and optimizing phytotherapeutic applications in animal husbandry.