Effect of Nettle Root Extract on Folliculogenesis and Estrogen and Progesterone Hormones in Rats

Background and Objective: nettle is an herbaceous perennial plant, which has been used as a source of medicine since ancient times. It is reported that lignan, sterols, flavonoids, poly-saccharides, lectins, and fatty acids are responsible for pharmacological effects of nettle. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of hydro alcoholic extract of nettle on folliculogenesis as well as estrogen and progesterone hormones in rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 32 healthy and mature female rats were used. The rats were divided randomly into one control and three experimental groups. The first, the second and the third experimental groups orally received 75mg/kg, 150mg/kg and 300mg/kg extract of nettle root with respect to their body weights. Blood samples were taken from the animals to assess serum levels of estrogen and progesterone after three weeks. Their ovaries were isolated and weighed. Tissue sections were examined by an optical microscope. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Findings: mean weight of ovaries and mean number of primary, secondary and tertiary follicles significantly increased in the second and the third experimental groups compared to the control group (P<0.05). Mean serum concentration of estrogen in the second and the third experimental groups significantly increased compared to the control group (P<0.05). Mean serum concentration of progesterone in the third experimental group significantly increased compared with the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The extract of nettle root increases folliculogenesis due to presence of phytoestrols in rats.