Studies on brain structure and neurological function in alcoholic rats controlled by an Indian medicinal formula...

An Indian herbal brew known in Ayurvedic pharmacy as asavam (SKV) was tested for its effectiveness in controlling addiction to ethanol in rats. Rats on SKV therapy with free access to 15% ethanol showed a marked reduction in voluntary ethanol intake. Their performance in simple neurological tests improved and a reversal of ethanol-induced changes in the electroencephalogram and electrocardiogram were also recorded. SKV treatment appeared to correct the fatty changes in liver and the signs of haemorrhage, demyelination and spongiosis seen in the brain of ethanol-fed rats.