Anti-fertility Effects of Ethanol Extract of Salacia lehmbachii Root Bark in Albino Rats

Aim: With the reported impairment of male fertility by herbal remedies in the literature, ethanol extract of the root bark of Salacia lehmbachii, a commonly used remedy by locals for febrile illnesses, was studied to evaluate its effect on the fertilization potential of sperm cells in rats.

Methodology: Twenty four sexually mature male rats weighing 220-250 g and 24 virgin female rats weighing 150-180 g were used for this study. The male rats were randomly assigned 4 groups (n=6), labeled Control, A, B and C. Control rats received 2 mL of distilled water (vehicle) orally. Groups A, B and C received 250, 500 and 750 mg/kg body weight of ethanol extract of Salacia lehmbachii root bark (ESLR) respectively. Preparation of extract was by Soxhlet extraction of petroleum ether defatted plant residue using ethanol. Administration to the rats was orally using a cannula for 56 days. Natural ovulation was induced in the female rats after which they were paired one to one with the treated male rats and allowed overnight for mating. Vaginal smears from the female rats were examined for sperm cells the next morning as evidence of successful mating. Fertility indices were computed for the male rats. The rats were weighed, anaesthetized and the testes and left cauda epididymis harvested. Testicular weights and lengths were taken. Sperm from the left cauda epididymis was analyzed with an automated semen analyzer for counts while morphological characteristics were assessed with a microscope.

Results: There was a significant (P<.05) dose dependent decrease in testicular weights, sperm indices and fertilizing potential in treated rats. More primary and secondary sperm abnormalities were seen in treated rats and testicular cyto-architecture was altered at high doses.

Conclusion: At the doses used in this study, ESLR decreases fertility in male rats.