Anti-fertility Effects of Ethanolic Extract of Anethumgraveolens in Male Rabbits

Abstract

Gonadectomy is the most commonly utilized method for permanent contraception in small animals. But some
negative side effects can be noticed after surgical castration, therefore finding safe and effective contraceptive
substances can be so useful, medicinal plants have a long history of use in traditional medicine. The sperm
cell count, motility, live/dead sperm cell ratio, morphology, LH, FSH and Testosterone level were used in
this study to evaluate the effect of prolonged administration of ethanolic extract of Anethumgraveolens on
male reproductive system in male rabbits. Twelve healthy adult male rabbit were randomly divided in to
two groups. The rabbits in group 1 (control group) were administered normal saline (3ml), while rabbits in
group 2 were administered ethanolic extract of Anethumgraveolens at dose 0.5 gm./kg B.W for 30 days.
The treatment with extract caused significant decrease in sperm motility, live/dead, sperm count, sperm LH,
FSH and testosterone level with significant increase (P?0.05) of abnormal sperm. Histological study showed
many pathological changes in testes. On the other hand, Prolonged administration of the extract could be a
good source of drug for birth control.