Antigonadotrophic Effect of Spondias Mombin Leaf Extract In Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Spondias mombin is a fructiferous tree used for medicinal purposes and is relied on for its contraceptive and abortifacient properties. The aim is study is to investigate the effect of Spondias mombin leaf’s aqueous extract on the anterior pituitary cells and hormones. 30 mature male Wistar rats (180- 200g) were obtained and divided equally into three groups 1, 2 and 3. Group 1 served as control and received vehicle. Groups 2 and 3 were treated with 400mgkg^-1 and 800mgkg^-1 of the leaf extract through oral gavage for 28 days. The animals were anaesthetized by chloroform and sacrificed on the 29^th day.  Blood was obtained from the hearts of the animals and skull was opened to excise the pituitary gland. Testicular and accessory glandular weights were taken. Regression of gonadotropin cells was observed in the experimental groups compared to the control. Hormonal assay showed significantly reduced levels (p<0.05) of FSH, LH and T in experimental groups. Significant (p<0.05) changes were recorded in weights of testis, epididymis and prostate gland with no changes in the weight of seminal vesicle. We conclude that aqueous leaf extract of Spondias mombin may cause regression of the anterior pituitary cells with decrease in serum levels of FSH, LH and T which supports its use as an herbal contraceptive.

Keywords: Antigonadotrophic, FSH, LH, Spondias mombin, Regression.