Sub-acute toxic effects of methanol root extract of <i>Carpolobia alba</i> G. Don on testes of adult Wistar rats

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Over 80% of the populations in some Asian and African countries depend on traditional medicine for primary health care. For centuries men and women have attempted to enhance their sexual performances by using substances derived from plant-based natural sources known as aphrodisiacs. Carpolobia alba G. Don is a popular natural recreational aphrodisiac plants commonly used in Nigeria. In this study, we assessed the effects of sub-acute administration of methanol root extract of Carpolobia alba on the testes of adult Wistar rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty adult male rats (weighing 200g-250g) were randomized into four groups consisting of five animals each. Each group was treated daily with distilled water, 100, 200 and 400mg/kg body weight respectively of methanol root extract Carpolobia alba G. Don for 30 days. The animals were sacrificed via cervical dislocation. Histological examination (Hematoxylin and Eosin stain), hormonal profile [Testosterone (T), Leutinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)], Oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA, SOD, CAT) and sperm analysis were done. RESULTS: Daily administration of the extract resulted in marked degeneration and shrunken seminiferous tubules, degeneration and vacuolization of germinal epithelium, reduction in spermatogenic cells population, absence of late stage germ cells and significant reduction (<0.05) in T, LH, FSH, sperm parameters(sperm count, motility and morphology) and induction of oxidative stress in a dose-dependent manner CONCLUSION: This result indicate anti-fertility potential of sub-acute consumption of methanol root extract of Carpolobia alba G.Don in male Wistar rats.