Trace Elements Content Of Neem Leaves (Azadirachta Indica)

Discussion and Conclusion

The result of the project work is as presented in the Tables in Chapter four. From the tables, it is obvious that the water extract of Azadirachta indica is significantly high in sodium ion (Na+) and potassium ion (K+) concentrations. The interpretation of this is that the continuous intake of the water extract of the neem leaves improve the conduction of impulses along the axons of the central nervous system. Sodium and potassium ions are vital electrolytes in the transfer of information along the central nervous system. Lack of these electrolytes indicates serious deleterious effect to the physiological homeostasis of higher organisms, especially man. On another note, sodium ions play important role in the transport of glucose across the plasma membrane. Glucose is the cellular-preferred metabolite for the generation of energy through the glycolytic pathway. This metabolite would not cross the cellular membrane barrier unaided. It is, therefore, transported to where it is metabolized in exchange for sodium ions. This shows that lack of this vital electrolyte (example sodium ion) could ‘ordinarily’ lead to the starvation of cells.

Iron is another element determined. This element is significantly low in the water extract of the sample used (neem leaf). Thus, the intake of water extract of Azadirachta indica leaf should be discouraged for individuals who are convalescing from serious anaemia and need urgent replenishment of blood – red blood cells. This is evident from the fact that the human red blood cells is built on the iron. Though iron can be regenerated or recycled from aged or dead red blood corpuscles, constant intake from ‘outside’ sources (example plant sources) should be encouraged. The water extract of Azadirachta indica is not a good source.

Besides, certain heavy elements assayed for included lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn). It is known that these elements are very toxic to the biochemical system and most often can initiate certain cancers or cause certain deformities. The water extract of Azadirachta indica was not found to possess any of these heavy elements and as thus could not be considered as poisonous.

It is therefore recommended that future researchers should study the various actions of the extract to their effect on the health of the heart; that is if it would lead to the packing of the heart. The extract should also be purified and graded for further clinical studies.