Effect of Smilax China Linn on Testicular Antioxidant Activity and Spermatological Parameters in Rats Subjected to Forced Swimming Stress

The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential benefits of ethanolic extract of Smilax china Linn. on testicular antioxidant activity and spermatological parameters in rats subjected to forced swimming stress. Animals of the experimental groups except vehicle control were subjected to forced swimming stress (FSS) 15 min/day for 52 days. Animals were pretreated with two doses of ethanolic extract of Smilax china rhizomes (100 and 200 mg/kg b.w., p.o.) for 15 days prior to the starting of FSS and were continued further for 52 days along with induction of stress. Testicular SOD, catalase and lipid peroxidation were determined. The cauda epididymis was isolated and sperms were released into saline and sperm count, viability, morphology and motility were analysed. Rats with forced swimming stress showed a significant increase in lipid peroxidation and decrease in testicular SOD, catalase, sperm count, viability and motility. Many abnormal forms of sperms were seen. Rats pretreated with ethanolic extract of Smilax china rhizomes at both doses significantly prevented the stress induced changes. Hence, ethanolic extract of Smilax china rhizomes at both doses showed good protection against testicular antioxidant activity and spermatological parameters in rats subjected to forced swimming stress.