Garlic Consumption Alters Testicular Histology and Anti-Oxidant Status In Wistar Rats

Abstract

Garlic is known for its cell and tissue-protective functions. This study examined the effects of  aqueous garlic extract on the histology of the testes of Wistar rats and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity.

Twenty-four (24) rats with an average weight of 116 g were used. They were randomly grouped into three: Group A Control: was given distilled water; Group B: was given 500 mg/kg/d aqueous garlic extract; and Group C: received 1000 mg/kg/d aqueous garlic extract; all for 28 days.

Findings revealed progressive depletion in sperm cell population, reduction in size of seminiferous tubules, and widening interstitial space. SOD activity was significantly reduced in both treated groups in a dose-dependent fashion.

These histological observations and the depletion in endogenous anti-oxidant status associated with the administration of garlic could result in significant affectation of male reproductive functions.

Keywords: garlic, superoxide dismutase, testis, histology