"Neem seed oil's antiandrogenic effects in male rats and rabbits"
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: ‘antiandrogenic properties of neem seed oil (azadirachta indica) in male rat and rabbi’
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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J. D. Sharma, R. K. Jha, Ira Gupta, Prabha Jain, V.P. Dixit
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: ‘antiandrogenic properties of neem seed oil (azadirachta indica) in male rat and rabbi’
Year: 1987
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study investigates the antiandrogenic properties of Azadirachta indica (neem) seed oil and its effects on male fertility in rats and rabbits. Population control has been a significant focus in India, prompting research into non-toxic and effective antifertility agents. Despite the extensive medicinal use of neem oil in traditional medicine, there is limited knowledge about its effects on male reproductive health. This research aims to fill this gap by examining how neem seed oil influences sperm motility, reproductive organ weights, and biochemical parameters associated with male fertility.
Impact on Sperm Motility and Biochemical Parameters
One of the most critical findings in this study is the significant reduction in spermatozoan motility and density as a result of neem seed oil treatment. The study demonstrated that as the dosage of neem seed oil increased, there was a corresponding significant decline in sperm motility and a decrease in epididymal sperm density. Additionally, biochemical analysis revealed decreased levels of proteins, sialic acid, and acid phosphatase in the cauda epididymis, which are dependent on testosterone levels. The histological examination further showed arrest in spermatogenesis and degenerative changes in the reproductive organs, indicating that neem seed oil disrupts normal reproductive functions by targeting androgen levels.
Conclusion
The findings of this research suggest that neem seed oil has pronounced antifertility effects in male rats and rabbits, attributed to its antiandrogenic properties. The alterations observed in sperm motility, reproductive organ weights, and biochemical parameters underline the potential of neem seed oil as an effective male contraceptive agent. However, further studies are necessary to explore its practical applications for fertility regulation and to understand the mechanisms underlying its effects on male reproductive health.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the main finding about neem seed oil's effects?
Neem seed oil significantly reduces sperm motility and density, leading to decreased fertility rates in male rats and rabbits. This happens without affecting their overall body weight but impacts the weights of reproductive organs.
How does neem seed oil affect male reproductive hormone levels?
The treatment with neem seed oil seems to lower circulating testosterone levels, influencing the functioning and integrity of reproductive organs by causing the so-called 'androgen deprivation effect'.
What changes were observed in the biochemistry of sperm?
There was a significant decrease in protein content, sialic acid, acid phosphatase, and fructose levels in the cauda epididymis and seminal vesicles, indicating altered biochemical conditions due to neem seed oil treatment.
What histological changes were noted in the testes and epididymis?
Histological examination revealed spermatogenic arrest at the beta-phase stage in testes along with severe degenerative changes in the cauda epididymis, indicating damage to the reproductive tissue caused by neem seed oil.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “"Neem seed oil's antiandrogenic effects in male rats and rabbits"”. 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) Neem:
Neem refers to the Azadirachta indica tree, known for its medicinal properties, particularly its seed oil, which is the focus of this study. The research highlights neem's potential impact on male fertility by exhibiting antiandrogenic properties, making it relevant for the development of non-toxic contraceptive methods.
2) Activity:
Activity in this context pertains to the effects induced by neem seed oil on male reproductive systems. The study investigates how neem affects sperm motility, density, and other reproductive parameters. The findings demonstrate that neem oil possesses biological activity that interferes with androgen function, leading to potential contraceptive effects.
3) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, is a tree whose seeds are analyzed in the study for their effects on male reproductive health. The scientific name is essential as it specifies the exact plant being referenced, emphasizing its significance in traditional medicine and potential role in male fertility regulation.
4) Sharman (Śarma, Sarmā, Sarma, Sharma, Śarman):
Sharma is likely the primary author of the study, indicating his significant role in conducting and presenting the research. His name carries weight in the academic context, as it relates to the findings and conclusions drawn from the experiments assessing neem seed oil's impact on male fertility.
5) Simha (Siṃha):
Sinha is another researcher mentioned in the study, contributing to the exploration of neem's contraceptive potential. His previous work on neem oil adds credibility and context to the current study, linking it to broader research efforts into plant-based contraceptives and their biological effects on male fertility.
6) Sugar:
Sugar, specifically fructose, is analyzed in this research as a key biochemical indicator of seminal vesicle function. The study examines how neem seed oil influences fructose levels, thus affecting sperm viability and fertility. This measurement helps assess the secretory activity of reproductive organs in response to neem treatment.
7) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the study of the effects of neem seed oil on biological systems. The research identifies neem as a potential source of non-toxic antifertility agents, underscoring its medicinal applications and the importance of understanding plant-derived compounds in drug development and male fertility regulation.
8) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section of the study where findings are interpreted and contextualized with existing literature. It highlights the implications of the results, draws connections to previous research, and suggests areas for future work. This section is crucial for understanding the broader impact of neem's antiandrogenic properties.
9) Medicine:
Medicine relates to the study of the herbal and traditional uses of neem, emphasizing its historical significance. The research connects neem seed oil's effects to potential therapeutic applications, particularly in developing male contraceptives, showcasing the integration of traditional medicine and modern scientific inquiry.
10) Science (Scientific):
Science is the overarching discipline underpinning the study's methodology and analysis. It reflects the systematic investigation of neem seed oil's biological effects, highlighting its relevance in reproducible research. The findings contribute to scientific knowledge regarding fertility regulation and the pharmacological potential of natural substances.
11) Prabha (Prabhā):
Prabha, another co-author of the study, contributes to the research team's expertise. Her involvement implies collaborative efforts in exploring neem's effects. Including multiple authors underscores the interdisciplinary nature of the research and the importance of diverse perspectives in advancing our understanding of antifertility agents.
12) Gupta (Guptā):
Gupta, also a co-author, adds to the research team's credibility and expertise in the study. Including various authors illustrates collaboration in scientific investigation. Each author brings unique insights contributing to the research quality and demonstrating teamwork vital in exploring neem's antiandrogenic properties and effects on fertility.
13) Water:
Water is mentioned in the context of the study as a fundamental resource for the animals used in experiments. Access to adequate hydration ensures the health and well-being of the subjects during the research, serving as a control variable vital for maintaining experimental integrity and reliable outcomes.
14) Blood:
Blood is relevant in the context of the study for its association with biochemical analyses and physiological measurements. It reflects the overall health and biochemical status of the rats and rabbits during the experiment. The reference to blood emphasizes the importance of understanding systemic effects of neem seed oil treatment.