Phytochemical Characterization and Reproductive Protective Potential of Cynomorium coccineum Against Aluminum-Induced Toxicity in Rats.

Aluminum chloride (AlCl3) is a known reproductive toxicant that impairs spermatogenesis and disrupts hormonal balance. Natural antioxidants have emerged as promising candidates to counteract such effects. Cynomorium coccineum (Cc), a parasitic medicinal plant rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, possesses strong antioxidant activity but remains underexplored in the context of male fertility. This study evaluated the protective effects of Cc aqueous extract (CCAE) against AlCl3-induced reproductive toxicity in adult male Wistar rats. Phytochemical characterization of CCAE via UPLC-MS/MS identified 14 bioactive compounds, with gallic acid as the major constituent. Total phenolic and flavonoid content, along with in vitro antioxidant assays, confirmed potent activity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl [DPPH] IC50: 54.52 ± 0.84 µg/mL; reducing power: 196.01 ± 1.05 µg/mL). Acute toxicity testing established safety up to 2000 mg/kg. Rats were assigned to four groups to assess CCAE's dose-dependent effects following AlCl3 exposure. AlCl3 significantly reduced sperm quality, testosterone levels, and gonadosomatic index and altered testicular histoarchitecture. CCAE administration reversed these impairments, improving hormonal balance, sperm parameters, and tissue structure. These findings highlight the antioxidant-mediated protective role of Cc against AlCl3-induced reproductive toxicity and support its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for male fertility enhancement.