Aqueous extract of Telfairia occidentalis leaves reduces blood sugar and increases haematological and reproductive indices in male rats

The effects of the aqueous extract of the leaves of Telfairia Occidentalis (fluted pumpkin) were studied on some haematological indices, sperm parameters and blood glucose in male albino rats. The experiment was divided into two parts. In the first part, twelve (12) male rats were divided into two groups of six (6) rats each. Group 1 rats served as control and were given 10 ml/kg of normal saline while the group 2 rats were treated with 200 mg/kg of the aqueous extract for two weeks. At the end of the treatment period, haematological indices (packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration, red and white blood cell counts), sperm parameters (sperm motility, viability and counts) and blood glucose were determined. In the second part of the experiment, twenty four (24) male rats were divided into four (4) groups of six (6) rats each. Group 1 rats served as control while groups 2, 3 and 4 rats were given 200 mg/kg of the extract for 5, 7 and 14 days, respectively. Haematological indices were determined in these rats at the end of the treatment. The results showed that T. occidentalis significantly increased all the haematological indices and sperm parameters. In contrast, however, the extract significantly reduced the blood glucose levels. The results also showed that the increase in the haematological indices started after the seventh day of treatment. The results suggest that T. occidentalis could increase haematological indices within seven days. It could also improve sperm quality and could be a potent hypoglycemic agent.