Effects of aqueous extract from Cyathula prostrata (Linn.) Blume (Amaranthaceae) on puberty onset and some reproductive parameters in immature female Wistar rats.

PURPOSE: Cyathula prostrata (C. prostrata) a medicinal plant from tropical Africa, is traditionally used in Western Cameroon to treat female infertility. This study investigated the hormone-like effects of the aqueous extract of C. prostrata (AECp) leaves and stems on the onset of puberty and various reproductive parameters in immature female Wistar rats.

METHODS

Five groups of immature female rats received daily oral doses of AECp for 20 consecutive days. Post-treatment body, ovarian, and uterine weights were recorded, along with uterine and ovarian protein levels, ovarian cholesterol levels, and blood hormone concentrations (FSH, LH, estradiol, and progesterone).

RESULTS

AECp increased the growth rate in all treated animals. It reduced the age at vaginal opening by 2 to 6 days compared to controls. Secondary and tertiary follicles increased by 32.7% and 37.7%, respectively, in AECp-treated rats (96 mg/kg and 64 mg/kg). AECp significantly reduced uterine and ovarian protein levels by 21.3% and 27.8% at 64 mg/kg dosage. Regardless of dose, AECp lowered ovarian cholesterol and serum FSH levels (p < 0.001). Serum progesterone, estradiol, and LH levels increased significantly at 64 mg/kg compared to controls.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates AECp's positive effects on the onset of puberty and ovarian folliculogenesis in immature female rats.