The histological effect of <i>Cnidoscolus aconitifolius</i> aqueous leaf extracts on the archetecture of the ovary, testis and sperm cells of adult wistar rats

Abstract

This study accessed the effects of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius on some reproductive organs (testis and ovary) and semen analysis cells of adult wistar rats. Twenty four (24) adult wistar rats weighing 170g-215g were used for this study; the animals were weighed and sorted into control and three treatment groups of six rats each. The control received feed mash and water liberally, while the treated groups 2-4 were given 200mg, 400mg and 600mg of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius aqueous extract respectively, also they received feed mash and water liberally. At the end of the four weeks experiment animals were sacrificed, organs harvested and fixed in 10% formal saline for histological studies and sperm cells were placed in normal saline for semen analysis. The extract has no effect on body weight as gradual increase in body weight was observed in all the groups. Microscopic examination of the testis and ovary showed a dose dependent effect, for treated groups; testis revealed spermatogenesis arrest, the ovary revealed lutienization of the ovarian stroma and semen analysis for motility, morphology, viability and sperm count showed significant differences when compared to control group. Therefore caution should be taken in the use of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius.

Keywords: Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, medicinal plant, phytochemical screening, anti-fertility agents, reproductive organs,