This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of plantain meal on liver enzyme levels in ethanol-induced Wistar rats. Eighteen male Wistar rats (160–270 g) were divided into three groups: Group I (control), received standard rodent chow; Group II, was fed a mixture of plantain meal and normal feed at a 1:1 ratio; and Group III, received a 2:1 plantain-to-feed ratio. After 14 days of dietary intervention, all groups were induced with 80% ethanol (5 ml/kg). Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were measured. The results indicated that plantain meal significantly reduced ALT, AST, and ALP levels in the experimental groups compared to the control, with the 1:1 ratio being more effective. These findings suggest that plantain meal possesses hepatoprotective properties, making it a potential candidate for dietary interventions aimed at liver health.

Neurodegenerative disorders, are marked by progressive neuronal loss and cognitive decline. Aluminum chloride (AlCl₃) exposure has been shown to induce neurodegenerative changes through oxidative damage and inflammation. This study investigated the neuroprotective potential of Cocos nucifera (coconut water) on AlCl₃-induced neurodegeneration in Wistar rats. Thirty-two adult rats were randomly assigned into eight groups: Group I control (distilled water only), Group II, inducement of ND’s (AlCl₃-only), Group III (donepezil-only), Group IV: ND’s + donepezil (AlCl₃ and donepezil), Group V: ND's + (coconut water 500mg/kg), Group VI: ND's+ coconut water 1500mg/kg, Group VII: coconut water 500mg/kg only and Group VIII coconut water high dose (1500mg/kg only). Neurodegeneration was induced with AlCl₃ (10 mg/kg) for 14 days, followed by 14 days of treatment. Behavioral assessment using the Y-maze evaluated spatial working memory, while biochemical assays measured antioxidant markers—GSH, GPx, CAT, SOD, and MDA. Results revealed that coconut water treatment improved antioxidant status, with significant increases in CAT (group V - 3.60 ± 0.52, group VI - 3.75 ± 0.04) and GPx (group V - 0.04 ± 0.00, group VI - 0.04 ± 0.00) levels (p < 0.05) compared to the AlCl₃-induced group (CAT - 2.19 ± 0.02 and Gpx - 0.04 ± 0.00) indicating enhanced oxidative defense. Although no statistically significant differences were found in Y-maze performance across groups (p > 0.05). In conclusion, coconut water did not avert memory loss induced by AlCl3 toxicity at the dosage administered.