Antifertility activity of medicinal plant extracts on albino rats
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Antifertility activity of medicinal plant extracts on albino rats
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Rama Vemula, G. Venkat Raji Reddy, R. Vijay Kumar and M. Krishna Reddy
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Antifertility activity of medicinal plant extracts on albino rats
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by Rama et al. investigates the antifertility activity of medicinal plant extracts, specifically focusing on the leaves of Streblus asper. With an increasing reliance on traditional medicines due to various factors including the high cost of allopathic drugs and their side effects, this research aims to explore the potential of plant-derived substances in affecting reproductive health. Notably, a significant portion of the global population cannot access modern pharmaceuticals and thus turns to herbal remedies, particularly in regions rich in biodiversity like India.
Effect of Streblus asper Aqueous Leaf Extract on Reproductive Parameters
One of the key findings of this research pertains to the impact of Streblus asper aqueous leaf extract (SAALE) on sperm parameters in male albino rats. The study observed a significant reduction in sperm count and motility among the rats treated with SAALE when compared to the control group. Specifically, the sperm count decreased dramatically in the groups receiving higher doses of the extract (400 mg/kg), indicating a negative effect on spermatogenesis. The authors suggest that this adverse impact may be due to disruptions in hormone levels, particularly luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are critical for sperm production and maturation.
Influence on Body and Reproductive Organ Weights
The administration of both SAALE and Streblus asper methanol leaf extract (SAMLE) resulted in a notable decline in body and reproductive organ weights in the treated rats. Group II and III rats receiving SAALE exhibited more significant reductions in weights of vital reproductive organs such as testes and cauda epididymis compared to the control group. This observation signals a potential toxicity associated with the extracts, highlighted by changes in organ weight as indicators of physiological effects. Moreover, the histological examination indicated structural damage within the seminiferous tubules and surrounding interstitial tissues, supporting the notion of toxicity.
Serological Impacts and Liver Function
Further examination of the serological parameters, specifically serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) levels, shed light on the potential hepatotoxic effects of the extracts. While SGOT and SGPT levels were generally within normal ranges in the control group, the groups treated with SAALE exhibited elevated levels, particularly in higher dosage groups. These markers are typically associated with liver cell damage, suggesting that the SAALE may induce hepatic stress or dysfunction, thereby raising concerns regarding its safety for long-term use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study effectively illustrates the antifertility properties of Streblus asper extracts, particularly the aqueous leaf extract. Findings demonstrate that SAALE significantly reduces sperm count and motility while also affecting the weights of reproductive organs and raising liver enzyme levels. Such results highlight the need for caution when considering the use of traditional medicinal plants for reproductive health, emphasizing thorough investigation of their safety profiles. Overall, this research contributes to the growing body of knowledge regarding the medicinal use of plants in managing fertility and serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in herbal pharmacology.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the objective of the study on medicinal plants?
The study aimed to evaluate the antifertility activity of extracts from the medicinal plant Streblus asper on male albino rats, focusing on parameters such as sperm count and motility.
How were the medicinal plant extracts prepared for the study?
The leaves of Streblus asper were dried, powdered, and extracted using aqueous and methanol solvents through a maceration technique, resulting in two different extracts for testing.
What doses of plant extracts were administered to the rats?
Male albino rats were divided into five groups and treated with either 200 mg/kg or 400 mg/kg of the aqueous or methanol extracts of Streblus asper over a period of 21 days.
What were the observed effects on sperm count and motility?
The study found that sperm count and motility significantly decreased in the rats treated with the aqueous leaf extract, indicating a potent antifertility effect compared to the control group.
How did the plant extracts affect the body and organ weights?
Extract-treated groups showed decreased final body weights and reproductive organ weights, particularly with the aqueous leaf extract having a more pronounced effect than the methanol extract.
What conclusions were drawn regarding the antifertility properties of Streblus asper?
The study concluded that the aqueous leaf extract of Streblus asper exhibited antifertility activity in male albino rats, as indicated by altered serum enzyme levels and reduced sperm parameters.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antifertility activity of medicinal plant extracts on 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) Rama:
Rama refers to Rama Vemula, the lead author of the research study focused on the antifertility activity of medicinal plant extracts. This individual plays a crucial role in conducting the study and documenting results. Authors like Rama are essential for advancing knowledge in areas related to reproductive health and traditional medicine.
2) Table:
In the context of scientific research, a table is a systematic arrangement of data that clearly presents findings, such as weights, biochemical parameters, and sperm counts. Tables facilitate easy comparison and analysis of results, allowing researchers and readers to quickly grasp the significance of experimental outcomes in the study.
3) Drug:
Drugs are substances used to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases. In this study, reference to the use of plant extracts implies that they serve as alternative medicines. The research explores how traditional plant-derived substances can affect fertility, highlighting their potential roles as natural drugs in managing reproductive health.
4) Activity:
Activity pertains to the specific effects or actions induced by substances, such as the antifertility activity observed from the plant extracts tested. Understanding the activity of these extracts is fundamental for establishing their efficacy and safety in potential therapeutic applications, particularly in fertility control.
5) Male:
The term male refers to the sex of the albino rats used in the study. The research particularly focuses on male reproductive physiology, which is relevant when assessing the impacts of the plant extracts on sperm count and motility, critical parameters linked to male fertility and reproductive health.
6) Warangal:
Warangal is the city where Kakatiya University is located, and it serves as the geographical context for the research. The region may have relevance concerning local plant species studied, emphasizing the significance of indigenous knowledge in providing insights into medicinal plants and their applications in herbal therapies.
7) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science and practice of diagnosing and treating illnesses. This study explores the application of traditional herbal medicines derived from plants like Streblus asper, focusing on their potential therapeutic implications. The study emphasizes the shift towards alternative medicine as a viable option for reproductive health.
8) Powder:
Powder refers to the processed state of the plant material used for extracting active compounds. In the study, dried leaves were powdered to facilitate the extraction of medicinal properties. The form of the substance is crucial in determining its efficacy, absorption, and used dosage in animal trials.
9) Kakatiya:
Kakatiya refers to Kakatiya University, which hosts the Department of Zoology where the research was conducted. The university is significant for its role in academic research, encouraging the exploration of local biodiversity and promoting traditional knowledge through scientific investigation, thus contributing to the broader field of medicinal plant studies.
10) India:
India is significant in this research context as it is home to a vast array of medicinal plants used in traditional medicine. The diverse culture and extensive use of herbal remedies reflect the country's longstanding relationship with plant-based treatments and underscore the importance of research in preserving this heritage.
11) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the systematic investigation conducted to explore the effects of medicinal plant extracts on male fertility. This term emphasizes the methodological approaches used to assess biological parameters, reinforcing the importance of scientifically rigorous evaluation in validating traditional uses of plants for health applications.
12) Developing:
Developing commonly refers to nations or regions with emerging economies that face unique health challenges. In the study, the concept highlights the necessity of affordable and accessible medicinal options for populations that cannot afford conventional pharmaceutical products, thus promoting the use of traditional herbal treatments as viable alternatives.
13) Disease:
Disease refers to any condition that impairs normal functioning, and in the context of this research, it implies reproductive health issues. The study is pertinent for understanding how alternative treatments, derived from plants, can address fertility-related conditions, emphasizing the significance of investigating plant-based therapies.
14) Zoology:
Zoology is the branch of biology that studies animal life, and its relevance here stems from the research's focus on male albino rats as test subjects. This illustrates the intersection of ecological science with medical research, highlighting the importance of model organisms in studying reproductive processes and effects.
15) Indian:
Indian refers to the rich tradition and extensive use of medicinal plants within the country. The relevance lies in the study's aim to document and validate the local knowledge systems regarding herbal medicine, positioning Indian biodiversity as a valuable resource for discovering new treatments.
16) Field:
Field signifies the discipline or area of study relevant to the research conducted. In this case, it denotes the field of reproductive physiology within zoology. The study's contributions to this field are crucial for understanding how different factors, including natural compounds, affect male fertility.
17) Discussion:
Discussion represents the section of research where findings are interpreted and contextualized relative to existing knowledge. This is key for identifying the implications of results, exploring hypotheses, and suggesting further research paths, ultimately contributing to advancements in both scientific knowledge and practical applications.
18) Substance:
Substance typically refers to any material used in the study, including the medicinal plant extracts. Understanding the characteristics of the substances under investigation is vital for assessing their pharmacological properties and potential therapeutic effects, thereby providing insights into their application in medical science.
19) Container:
Container refers to the storage vessel used to keep the plant extracts before administration. Proper containment is critical to preserve the integrity and ensure the stability of active compounds, which directly influences the efficacy of herbal treatments under investigation in the study.
20) Krishna (Krsna):
Krishna refers to M. Krishna Reddy, one of the co-authors of the research article. The collaboration among multiple authors reinforces the importance of teamwork in academic research endeavors, reflecting a collective effort in investigating the antifertility effects of medicinal plant extracts.
21) Village:
Village indicates the localized sourcing of the medicinal plant, with implications for traditional knowledge and community practices in herbal medicine. Highlighting such origins can emphasize the relevance of local biodiversity and indigenous expertise in the documented uses of plants for health remedies.
22) Species:
Species denotes the specific type of plant studied, in this case, Streblus asper. Each species possesses unique biological properties and pharmacological potential. Understanding species diversity is crucial for harnessing natural resources for medicinal purposes and for developing targeted therapies based on their attributes.
23) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants and their attributes. Its relevance here is grounded in the identification and classification of the medicinal plants used in the study. This field provides foundational knowledge necessary for exploring plant-derived treatments and the development of new medicinal applications.
24) Kumar:
Kumar refers to R. Vijay Kumar, another co-author of the study. His participation underscores the interdisciplinary collaboration essential for comprehensive research. The combined expertise of authors enhances the validity and depth of investigation into the antifertility effects of traditional plant extracts.
25) Glass:
Glass in this context refers to laboratory glassware, such as the containers used for storing extracts or conducting experiments. Glass apparatus is vital for ensuring controlled conditions necessary for accurate data collection and maintaining the quality of the substances being studied.
26) Blood:
Blood represents the biological fluid from which serum samples were obtained for serological tests in the study. Analysis of blood parameters is crucial for understanding the physiological effects of the treatments administered, thereby revealing insights into the overall health and well-being of the test subjects.
27) Raji:
Raji refers to G. Venkat Raji Reddy, a co-author of the research article. His involvement highlights the collaborative nature of scientific study, where diverse expertise enriches the investigation of traditional treatments and their effects on reproductive health and other physiological parameters.
28) Life:
Life in this context pertains to understanding the biological and environmental factors affecting reproductive health. The research addresses the significance of traditional medicinal plants in sustaining health, reflecting the broader theme of utilizing natural resources for improving the quality of life and well-being.