Methanol Root Extract of Rhaphiostylis beninensis Planch Ex Benth (Icacinaceae) Reverses Alcohol-induced Changes in Sex Hormones and Semen Quality in Male Rats

Abstract

The methanol root extract of Rhaphiostylis beninensis was investigated for its ability to reverse alcohol-induced changes in sex hormones, semen  quality and histoarchitecture of testes in male rats. Rats were divided into 5 groups, namely, normal control (1), negative control (2), extract treated (3 and 4) and vitamin E treated (5). The rats were fed 20% v/v alcohol except for those in group 1. In addition, groups 3 and 4 rats received the extract at concentrations of 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively while group 5 received 300 mg/kg of vitamin E. After 30 days, serum concentrations of testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, follicle stimulating  hormone, and luteinizing hormone were determined. Sperm count, motility, morphology and histoarchitecture of testes were also evaluated. Significant increase (p < 0.01) in serum concentration of testosterone, sperm count, and progressive motility was observed in extract-treated groups. Increase in spermatogenic activity of testes of extracttreated rats was also observed, suggesting that the plant extract may be useful in ameliorating alcohol-induced male reproductive toxicity.