European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF ALLIUM SATIVUM (GARLIC) AGAINST FORMALIN-INDUCED LUNG DAMAGE IN WISTAR RATS

Ofoego Uzozie Chikere*, Anyaorah Goodness Ugochi, Obinwa Benedict Nzube, Ekwujuru Ezinne Uchechi, Ofoego Amarachukwu Ndubuisi

ABSTRACT

Formalin is widely used for disinfection and embalming but is associated with respiratory complications due to prolonged inhalation. Allium sativum (garlic) contains bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. This study examined the protective effects of Allium sativum on formalin-induced lung damage in adult male Wistar rats. Twenty rats (100–120 g) were divided into five groups (A–E, four per group). Group A served as the control. Group B was exposed to 4 mL of 100% formalin. Group C received 500 mg/kg of Allium sativum. Groups D and E received 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of Allium sativum with formalin exposure, respectively. Formalin exposure lasted 30 minutes daily, while garlic extract was administered orally for 28 days. Histological analysis revealed thrombus-like aggregates in blood vessels in Group B. Group D showed alveolar proliferation, thickened alveolar epithelium, and alveolar sac expansion, while Group E exhibited terminal bronchiole constriction. These findings suggest that formalin alters lung tissue structure, and Allium sativum exerts a protective effect, mitigating formalin-induced lung damage.

Keywords: Formalin toxicity, Allium sativum, Lung protection, Oxidative stress.