The Effects of Aqueous Extract of Anacyclus Pyrethrum on Sperm Count and Reproductive Organs in Adult Male Rats

Introduction nfertility is a complex disorder affecting more than 80 million people worldwide [1]. Approximately 30 % of infertilities are due to male factors [2]. In only 40% of all cases the infertility is detectable, and in the remaining 60% it is not pathologically detectable [3]. Many factors including drug treatment, chemotherapy, toxins, air pollutions and insufficient vitamins intake have destructive effects on a normal spermatogenesis [4]. Some toxic compounds such as 2, 3, 7, 8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-pdioxin (TCDD) can increase the production of abnormal sperms [5]. Besides, study of Saba et al. [6] showed that extract of Lagenaria breviflora augments the production of abnormal sperms [7]. Although androgens are primarily used in the treatment of sexual disorders, in both men and women [8], the use of medicinal herbs have always been under attention [9]. The World Health Organization (WHO) in its 31th summit in developed countries has recommended administration of medicinal herbs, because of their standards, advantages and healthiness [10]. Experimental reports suggest that compounds with androgenic effects could increase the weight of reproductive organs and glands [11]. Various studies have shown that compounds such as flavonoids in medicinal herbs have androgenic effects and stimulates the spermatogenesis [12]. Anacyclus pyrethrum is a medical herb which derives from the root Pellitory and in Indian language is called Akarkara. In Indian traditional medicine this plant has been shown to strengthen the immune system of human [13]. Medicinally, A. pyrethrum root has a pungent efficacy in promoting a free flow of saliva, in relieving toothache, in alleviating chronic catarrh and acne [14]. Pellitory root in Indian traditional medicine has been widely used as an aphrodisiac and as a medicine for rejuvenation and vitality [15]. It has been reported that oral administration of the root powder has aphrodisiac actions [16], so that in male rats the administration of alkylamide-rich extracts of A. pyrethrum improved their sexual behaviors [17]. Therefore, the present study was aimed to evaluate the effects of intraperitoneal injection of aqueous extract of A. pyrethrum root on weight of reproductive organs and glands and on sperm count in epididymis and vas deferens of male adult rats. Article information Abstract