Effects of Castor Oil On Oestrous Cycles And Reproductive Hormone Levels In Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome In Female Wistar Rats
Peter, U.A1* , Aikpitanyi-Iduitua, R.O1 , Nzoputam, O. J and Raji, Y.O
1Departmentof Physioogy, School of Basic Medical Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Corresponding Author: uduakobong.akpan@uniben.edu; Tel: +2348023723523
Recieved Date: 10th March, 2023; Accepted Date: 30th April, 2023; Published Date: June, 2023
Citation: Peter, U.A1* , Aikpitanyi-Iduitua, R.O1 , Nzoputam, O. J and Raji, Y.O
ABSTRACT
Background: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) in young women is characterised by
excess androgen and reduced oestrogen levels, whereas castor oil has been reported to have
oestrogenic and anti-androgenic properties in animal model. The effects of castor oil on
oestrous cycles and reproductive hormone levels in female Wistar rats in Letrozole-induced
polycystic ovary syndrome were investigated. Materials and method: Forty-five female rats
were divided into 4 groups, with group 1 consisting of 10 rats, group 2 of 15 rats and groups
3 and 4 both consisting of 10 rats each. 1 mg/kg p.o. Letrozole was dissolved in 1 % CMC
and administered to induce PCOS in group 2 to 4 rats, while group 1 rats were given CMC
(vehicle) for 21 days, after which 5 rats were removed from group 2, sacrificed and assayed
for confirmation of PCOS induction. Thereafter, for the next 21 days, group 1 rats (negative
control, NC) and group 2 rats (positive control, PC) were given distilled water, while groups
3 and 4 rats were given castor oil (500 mg/kg BW and 1000 mg/kg BW respectively). Oestrous cycles, reproductive hormone levels and histology of the ovaries were studied. Differences in means were considered significant at p < 0.05. Results: There was reduction
in testosterone levels, increase in oestrogen levels, normalization of disrupted oestrous cycle
phases and length as well ovarian histology. Conclusion: Castor oil (Ricinus communis seed
oil) ameliorated oestrous changes associated with PCOS and caused alterations in the
reproductive hormones of female Wistar rats.