Evaluation of synergistic cytotoxic potential of <i>Zingiber officinale</i> and <i>Allium sativum</i> on Wistar rats testes

Abstract

Plants decoction has been used since ancient times for various disease manifestations. It is usually believed that combining different plants source ensures efficacy. Garlic and ginger combination have been used in treating various illness such as cold, growth, immunity and infections. The combined effects of Zingiber officinale and Allium sativum extracts were tested on the testicles of Wistar rats by evaluating haematological, cell viability and histopathological parameters. The study was done by dividing male Wistar rats into 4 groups. Each group received different concentrations of extracts (group 1; 100 mg (ginger) + 150 mg/kg garlic, group 2. 200 mg + 300 mg/kg, group 3; and group 4; 400 mg + 450 mg). Cell isolation, cell viability and histological analysis were performed in the testicles. Compared with the control group, there was no increase in RBC (P<0.05) but a decrease in WBC (P<0.05) in all groups given GG extract. Compared with the control group, there was no significant difference in the level of living cells in groups 2 and 3 (P<0.05), while in group 4 the level of dead cells decreased slightly compared to the control group (P<0.05). No significant change in superoxide dismutase was seen in molecular tests. Histological examination showed a significant improvement in cellularity. The results show that taking garlic and ginger extract has no effect on tumor function.