Abortifacient efficacy of moringa oleifera stem bark on female albino rats
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Abortifacient efficacy of moringa oleifera stem bark on female albino rats
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Varsha Zade and Dinesh Dabhadkar
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: Abortifacient efficacy of moringa oleifera stem bark on female albino rats
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by Varsha Zade and Dinesh Dabhadkar investigates the abortifacient efficacy of Moringa oleifera stem bark on female albino rats, motivated by the traditional claims within indigenous medicine. Synthetic contraceptives have been known to produce severe side effects, prompting a search for safer, herbal alternatives. Moringa oleifera, recognized for its medicinal properties, is used in various traditional contexts, particularly in the Melghat region of India, where its stem bark is reputed as an abortifacient. The primary aim of this research was to substantiate these claims scientifically, contributing to the understanding of herbal remedies for fertility control.
Phytochemical Screening and Toxicity
Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds in Moringa oleifera stem bark, including alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and saponins. The study evaluated the acute toxicity of the extracts at various doses (up to 1000 mg/kg), observing no significant adverse effects such as mortality or behavioral changes in treated rats. These findings suggest that short-term use of Moringa oleifera stem bark extracts may be safe, paving the way for further exploration of its potential medicinal applications without immediate toxicity concerns.
Abortifacient Activity
The results demonstrated that administration of the alcoholic extract of Moringa oleifera stem bark exhibited a dose-dependent abortifacient effect in rats. At the highest dose of 100 mg/kg, there was a complete abortion rate, whereas lower doses resulted in varying percentages of abortion, with significant reduction in the number of viable fetuses. Importantly, no vaginal bleeding, which often accompanies abortion, was observed, indicating that the mechanism may involve embryo resorption rather than expulsion. This significant finding highlights the potential of Moringa oleifera as an effective natural contraceptive.
Histopathological Findings
Histopathological analysis revealed noteworthy changes in both ovarian and uterine tissues after treatment with Moringa oleifera stem bark extract. Rat ovaries exhibited degeneration and an increased number of atretic follicles, signifying potential disruption in normal ovarian function and reduced fertility. Similarly, uterine histology showed structural changes, including shrinkage of uterine glands and diminished vascularity, indicating an unfavorable environment for embryo implantation. These morphological changes provide further support for the abortifacient effects observed in the prior results and underscore the need to understand the reproductive implications of herbal treatments thoroughly.
Conclusion
The findings of this study validate traditional claims regarding the abortifacient properties of Moringa oleifera stem bark, supporting its potential application as an alternative contraceptive agent with minimal side effects. The research reinforces the growing interest in exploring herbal origins for fertility control, particularly as healthier alternatives to synthetic methods. Further studies to isolate and identify the bioactive compounds responsible for these effects, along with assessing long-term safety and efficacy, are warranted to fully realize the potential of Moringa oleifera in reproductive health management.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the study on Moringa oleifera stem bark?
The study investigates the abortifacient efficacy of Moringa oleifera stem bark on female albino rats to validate its traditional use as an abortive medicine.
What types of extracts were tested for abortifacient activity?
Aqueous, alcoholic, benzene, and diethyl ether extracts of Moringa oleifera stem bark were tested for their effects on fertility and abortion rates in rats.
What were the results of the abortifacient activity tests?
The alcoholic extract at 100 mg/kg resulted in 100% abortion, while lower doses also showed significant abortive effects ranging from 10% to 47.9%.
How was the safety of Moringa oleifera extracts evaluated?
Acute toxicity studies did not show any significant adverse effects or mortality in rats treated with various extracts, indicating their relative safety for short-term use.
What histopathological changes were observed in the ovaries?
The treated rats exhibited degeneration of ovarian cortex, increased atretic follicles, and detachment of the granulosa layer, indicating potential fertility impairment.
What support does this study provide for traditional medicine?
The findings support the traditional use of Moringa oleifera stem bark as an abortive medicine and suggest it may serve as an alternative contraceptive remedy.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Abortifacient efficacy of moringa oleifera stem bark on female albino rats”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Animal:
In the context of the study, 'Animal' refers to the use of female albino rats, specifically the Wistar strain. These rats are vital for experimental research, especially in pharmacology and toxicology, to assess the effects of substances like Moringa oleifera on physiological processes such as reproduction and embryonic development.
2) Activity:
The term 'Activity' in this study primarily refers to the abortifacient efficacy of Moringa oleifera stem bark. It denotes the biological action exerted on the reproductive system of rats, highlighting the plant's potential to induce abortion and its impact on fertility indices.
3) Varsha (Varṣā, Varṣa, Vārṣa):
Varsha refers to the first author of the study, Dr. Varsha Zade. She led the research on the abortifacient effects of Moringa oleifera stem bark, contributing to the scientific understanding of herbal medicines and their applications in reproductive health and traditional medicine.
4) Study (Studying):
'Study' pertains to the scientific investigation conducted to validate the folkloric claims regarding the abortifacient properties of Moringa oleifera stem bark. It represents systematic research, employing methodologies such as animal experimentation and phytochemical analysis to gather and analyze data.
5) India:
India holds significance in this study as the geographical and cultural context where Moringa oleifera is traditionally used as a medicinal plant. The research is aimed at corroborating indigenous practices with scientific evidence, particularly in areas like Amravati district in Maharashtra.
6) Medicine:
'Medicine' refers to the traditional and folkloric practices surrounding the usage of Moringa oleifera. The study explores its potential applications in reproductive health, particularly how its stem bark may serve as a natural contraceptive or abortifacient, addressing the need for safer alternatives to synthetic drugs.
7) Amravati (Āmrāvatī):
Amravati is the district in Maharashtra, India, where the Moringa oleifera stem bark was collected for the study. It is a focal point for examining the local traditions of herbal medicine and its implications for modern scientific research into plant-based therapies.
8) Maharashtra (Mahārāṣṭra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is the Indian state where the research was conducted and where the indigenous uses of Moringa oleifera were documented. Understanding regional plant usage is crucial for validating traditional knowledge through scientific inquiry, promoting biodiversity conservation, and enhancing medicinal practices.
9) Toxicity:
Toxicity in this study pertains to the evaluation of the safety profile of Moringa oleifera stem bark. Acute toxicity studies were performed to ensure that the extracts do not produce harmful effects on the treated rats, which is essential for validating its use as a safe abortifacient.
10) Water:
'Water' is mentioned concerning the solvent used for the extraction of Moringa oleifera. The aqueous extract serves as one of the testing methodologies in the study, emphasizing the plant's versatility and potential efficacy when prepared in traditional ways commonly utilized in herbal medicine.
11) Table:
'Table' refers to the organized data presented within the study, specifically illustrating the results of various treatments. It aids in the visual representation of numerical findings, facilitating comparisons across different doses and types of Moringa oleifera extracts administered to the rats during the experiment.
12) Birth:
The term 'Birth' describes the outcome of pregnancy in the study's context, relating specifically to the litter size and neonatal measurements of offspring. It reflects the effects of the administered Moringa oleifera extracts on pregnancy outcomes, including fetal viability and morphological characteristics.
13) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the chemical compounds extracted from the Moringa oleifera plant. The preliminary phytochemical screening conducted in the study aimed to identify the specific bioactive components responsible for the abortifacient activity, enhancing the understanding of the medicinal properties of the plant.
14) Detachment:
Detachment in this context relates to the physiological separation of the embryo from the uterine lining, which may occur due to the administration of the Moringa oleifera extracts. Understanding this process is critical to assessing the abortifacient effects and implications for reproductive health.
15) Vidarbha (Vidarbhā):
Vidarbha is a region in Maharashtra, where the research was specifically grounded. It highlights the cultural context of herbal medicine use, indicating the ethnopharmacological relevance of Moringa oleifera among the communities in this area, further substantiating the plant's traditional applications.
16) Pregnant:
Pregnant refers to the female albino rats used in the study. The research focused on evaluating the effects of Moringa oleifera extracts on fertility and pregnancy outcomes, determining its potential abortifacient properties through a controlled experimental design.
17) Science (Scientific):
'Scientific' indicates the rigor of methodology applied in the study. The investigation employs systematic approaches to validate the traditional claims regarding Moringa oleifera, ensuring findings are based on empirical evidence rather than anecdotal reports, thus enhancing credibility.
18) Family:
Family refers to the specific botanical classification under which Moringa oleifera falls, Moringaceae. Understanding plant taxonomy is crucial in scientific studies, as it informs researchers about potential characteristics, uses, and effects attributed to plants within the same family.
19) Male (Mālē):
Male references the male rats used for mating with the female rats in the experimental setup. The successful pairing and evidence of copulation became essential criteria for determining the onset of pregnancy and subsequent evaluation of the abortifacient effects of the treatments.
20) Bleeding:
Bleeding indicates a physiological response that can signify abortion or other reproductive concerns. In this study, it was noted that no vaginal bleeding occurred in treated rats, suggesting the mechanism of abortion was through embryo resorption rather than expulsion, impacting fertility assessments.
21) Zoology:
Zoology is the branch of biology that focuses on animal physiology, behavior, and classification. This study's foundation in zoological principles allows researchers to effectively study the reproductive effects of Moringa oleifera extracts within a biological model, providing insights applicable to mammalian fertility.
22) Tree:
Tree refers to Moringa oleifera, which is a cultivated species known for its medicinal properties. As the focus of the study, the plant's various parts, particularly the stem bark, were assessed for their pharmacological effects, notably their potential use in contraceptive practices.
23) Cage (Cāge):
'Cage' refers to the controlled environment in which the experimental rats were housed during the study. Proper containment and habitat conditions are vital for maintaining the health and wellbeing of laboratory animals, ensuring valid experimental outcomes.
24) Horn:
Horn refers to the sections of the uterus in the female rats where the implantation sites are evaluated. Understanding the effects of the Moringa oleifera extracts on these specific areas is crucial for assessing the potential abortifacient properties of the plant.
25) Pain (Paiṇ):
'Pain' can reference the traditional uses of Moringa oleifera in treating various ailments, including pain relief. However, in this study's context, it underscores the significance of evaluating potential side effects of plant extracts on the reproductive system and overall wellbeing of the animals.
26) Post:
Post typically refers to conditions or evaluations made after a treatment has been administered. In this study, it indicates the assessment of outcomes after the administration of Moringa oleifera extracts, such as litter size and fetal resorption observations.
27) Pur (Pūr):
'Poor' may relate to the conditions of vascularity or tissue health observed in uterine histology post-treatment. An evaluation of the histopathological effects of Moringa oleifera extracts indicates how impaired blood flow could adversely affect implantation and embryonic development.
28) Curcuma longa:
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is mentioned as a point of comparison regarding its effects on reproductive physiology. Its inclusion in the discussion stands to validate the significance of plant studies in understanding herbal constituents that influence fertility and reproductive health.
29) Inflammation:
Inflammation can refer to the physiological responses influenced by herbal treatments, including the conditions that may be ameliorated by Moringa oleifera. Considering anti-inflammatory properties broadens the potential applications of traditional medicines in managing various health issues, including reproductive challenges.
30) Afghanistan:
Afghanistan is mentioned in the context of Moringa oleifera's traditional use in neighboring regions. It emphasizes the cross-cultural relevance of the plant in traditional medicine, paralleling its applications in India, thus enhancing the understanding of geographically shared herbal practices.
31) Discussion:
'Discussion' in the study refers to the analytical section where interpretation of results takes place. It contrasts findings with existing literature, providing insights into the implications of the abortifacient effects of Moringa oleifera and reinforcing its potential use in reproductive health.
32) Salivation:
Salivation is one of the evaluated behaviors during acute toxicity tests for the rats treated with Moringa oleifera extracts. Monitoring physiological reactions like salivation helps to assess the safety and potential adverse effects of herbal treatments on animal subjects.
33) Substance:
Substance in this context refers to the extracts derived from Moringa oleifera. The study focuses on testing these biological substances for their efficacy and safety, establishing their role in pharmacological applications, specifically in contraceptive measures.
34) Trimurti (Trimūrti, Tri-murti):
Trimurti refers to the lab feeds provided to the rats. Quality nutrition is crucial in research settings to maintain the health of experimental animals, influencing the validity of experimental outcomes by ensuring that diet does not confound results.
35) Swelling:
Swelling may refer to conditions treated by Moringa oleifera extracts, as the plant is traditionally used for its therapeutic properties. Understanding its applications helps establish a broader context for the medicinal qualities attributed to the plant within ethnopharmacology.
36) Fixation:
Fixation refers to the process used in the histopathological evaluation where uterine and ovarian tissues were preserved for microscopic examination. Proper fixation is essential for maintaining the structure of biological tissues so that accurate assessments can be made in histological studies.
37) Madhavi (Mādhavī):
Madhavi likely refers to a researcher or contributor to studies related to medicinal plants. Citing previous works by researchers like Madhavi helps to contextualize the current study within a larger body of scientific literature on the effects of plant extracts on reproduction.
38) Chennai:
Chennai is referenced in the context of the regulatory body (CPCSEA) overseeing animal experimentation. Understanding the ethical guidelines provided by such institutions is essential for ensuring compliance with animal welfare regulations throughout the research process.
39) Sharman (Śarma, Sarmā, Sarma, Sharma, Śarman):
Sharma is mentioned as a co-author or relevant researcher in the context of reproductive studies. Collaborations with established researchers enhance the credibility of the study, as their expertise contributes valuable insights into the investigation of herbal pharmacology.
40) Nature:
'Nature' refers to various aspects, including the natural environment from which plant materials are sourced and the intrinsic qualities of Moringa oleifera that offer medicinal benefits. Understanding the nature of these plants is critical in validating their scientific and therapeutic applications.
41) Temple:
Temple may suggest cultural aspects related to the spiritual use of plants in Indian traditions. The Moringa oleifera tree often holds significance in local traditions, showcasing the intersection of dietary habits, spirituality, and herbal medicine, pivotal in ethnobotanical studies.
42) Medium:
Medium refers to the solvents used for extracting phytochemicals from Moringa oleifera. A variety of extraction mediums are employed to elucidate the potential therapeutic compounds present, guiding researchers in determining the most effective formulations for pharmacological applications.
43) Nagapura (Nāgapura, Naga-pura):
Nagpur is a city in Maharashtra, significant as a hub for educational and research institutions. Mention of Nagpur underscores regional scientific advancements and collaborations that facilitate studies on indigenous medicinal plants like Moringa oleifera, contributing to broader research efforts.
44) Mathura (Mathur, Mathurā, Māthura, Mathūrā):
Mathur likely refers to a researcher whose work intersects with the study's focus on herbal pharmacology. Citing relevant studies by Mathur adds depth and context, situating the findings within an ongoing discourse on the medicinal efficacy of plants like Moringa oleifera.
45) Filling (Filled):
'Filled' relates to the histological assessment of tissue samples where certain areas are observed to be filled with specific cells or fluids. This detail contributes to the understanding of structural changes occurring in response to treatment with herbal extracts.
46) Gupta (Guptā):
Gupta is mentioned as a contributing researcher, asserting credibility within the scientific dialogue surrounding Moringa oleifera. His insights into reproductive health and plant pharmacology deepen the study's foundation, connecting the current findings to established research.
47) Amira (Amīra):
Amira likely refers to another researcher or study, providing comparative insights into the effects of herbal treatments on reproductive outcomes. Referencing her work enriches the context and validates findings through correlation with other scientific discoveries.
48) Fever:
'Fever' signifies one of the many conditions for which Moringa oleifera has traditionally been used. This underscores the plant's versatility as a medicinal agent, providing insight into potential anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties supported by herbal medicine.
49) Death:
Death refers to outcomes monitored in the study related to animal welfare during toxicity assessments. Ensuring that no adverse effects lead to mortality illustrates the study's focus on the safety of Moringa oleifera, reinforcing its traditional claims within a modern context.
50) Blood:
Blood represents a critical component in histopathological evaluations, especially in assessing changes in tissue vascularization. The study's findings on uterine health and blood supply implications showcase the effects of Moringa oleifera extracts on reproductive organs.
51) Lala (Lālā, Lāla):
Lala could refer to a researcher or contributing scientist in the pharmacological examination of medicinal plants. Inclusion of studies from researchers like Lala enriches the literature review and contextualizes the Moringa oleifera research within broader botanical explorations.
52) Pune:
Pune is a significant city in India where expert authentication of the plant materials was conducted. Its prominence as a center for botanical research and expertise underscores the importance of rigorous identification in exploring the medicinal potentials of local flora.
53) Hair:
'Hair' is mentioned concerning observations of the rats during the acute toxicity studies. Changes in hair appearance could indicate physiological stressors or adverse effects of treatments, highlighting the importance of monitoring overall animal health in experimental protocols.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Abortifacient efficacy of moringa oleifera stem bark on female albino rats’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Statistical analysis, Control group, Gestation period, Oral administration, Teratogenic effect, Phytochemical screening, Acute Toxicity Studies, Pharmacognostic study, Abortifacient activity, Traditional System of Medicine, Histopathological study, Acute toxicity study, Institutional animal ethics committee, Dose-dependent, Body weight, Biochemical analysis, Antifertility activity, Experimental protocol, Acute oral toxicity, Female albino rats, Histoarchitectural changes, Antifertility potential, Uterine histology, Vaginal bleeding, Fertility control, Plant material collection, Post-implantation loss, Reproductive physiology, Lactating rats, Sex ratio, Indigenous plant, Reproductive function, Early pregnancy, Litter size, Foetal resorption, Fetal organ growth.