evaluation of the hypophysial-testicular axis and testis tissues after matricaria chamomilla consumption in rats

background:  matricaria chamomilla is an ancient herbal drug widely consumed to sexual system improvement. the aim of this research was to study the effect of matricaria chamomilla hydroalcholic extract on the pituitary-testis axis and testes tissues of male rats. methods:  mature male rats were randomly assigned to two groups: the matricaria group (100 mg/kg of matricaria chamomilla extract via feeding tube once daily for 8 weeks) and the control group (1 ml of distilled water orally for the same period). after 8 weeks, animal were evaluated for blood levels of testosterone, estrogen, fsh, and lh. fertility indices like sperm count and the weight of the reproductive organs were assayed. in addition, testes histological assessments were done. results:  consumption of matricaria caused elevation in blood testosterone, fsh an lh. spermatogonia, spermatocyte, spermatid, spermatozoa, leydig and epididymal spermatozoa reserve count and reproductive organs weight were increased too. conclusions:  these findings suggest that matricaria chamomilla extract improve pituitary-testis axis and spermatogenesis in rats.