Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Mucuna Pruriens (Linn.) on Sperm Parameters and Sex Hormones in Adult Male Wistar Rats.

Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State.

1*Orheruata R.A., 2Sakpa C.L., 3Ejeguo A.

Corresponding Author: ufuoma6466@gmail.com

Recieved Date: June 2022; Accepted Date: June 2022; Published Date: June, 2022

ABSTRACT

Background/Objective: Ayurveda, which is known as the ancient medical system in India, used Mucuna pruriens traditionally in treating several diseases. This study evaluates the effect of aqueous leave extract of Mucuna pruriens on sperm parameters and sex hormones in adult male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty adult male Wistar rats were randomized into five groups consisting five rats each. Group A (control) received 1mL sterile water via oral route. Group B1 and B2 received 500mg/kg body weight via oral route daily for 4 and 8 weeks while groups C1 and C2 received 1500mg/kg body weight of extract for 4 and 8 respectively. Semen and blood samples were collected after 4 and 8 weeks respectively for semen and hormonal analysis. Data was compared between groups using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: A significant decrease (p<0.05) was observed in the progressive motility of rats among treated groups when compared to controls. The total sperm count of rats in groups B1, B2 and C2 was significantly decreased (p<0.05), while percentage normal sperm morphology of rats in groups B2 and C2 was significantly decreased (p<0.05) when compared with control. The mean serum testosterone was significantly increased (P<0.05) in rats in groups B1 and B2. Significant decrease (p<0.05) was observed in progesterone levels of rats in group B1 and B2, estradiol level of rats in group C1and C2 when compared to control. Conclusion: Findings from this study indicated that Mucuna pruriens may have an adverse effect on sperm indices and some sex hormones.