Effect of Hibiscus-Rosa-Sinensis (Linn.) on the Reproductive Endpoints and Fertility in Male Albino Mice

Abstract

Introduction: Plants and plant products have been regularly used for fertility regulation in humans. This could be because plant-based remedies are easily available, cheap, reliable, and most importantly free from unwanted side effects. The different parts viz. leaves, stems, roots, and flowers of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn. (family: Malavaceae) are known to exhibit many medicinal and pharmacological properties. Though Hibiscus has been known for its antifertility properties both in males and females, we do not have much information about the use of this plant in the control of fertility in males. 

Objectives: The present study deals with the effect of Hibiscus-rosa-sinensis on the reproductive endpoints and fertility in male albino mice after oral administration of different extracts prepared from the leaves of Hibiscus.

Methods: The aqueous, ethanol, and benzene leaf extracts of H. rosa-sinensis were administered orally (100 mg/kg BW/d for 35 d) to albino mice, and the effect of the treatments on the male reproductive organs, sperm parameters, biochemical and fertility indices in albino mice was examined. Toxicological as well as hematological studies were also carried out.

Results: Treatment with Hibiscus extracts brought non-uniform but detectable histologic alterations in the testis, epididymis, and seminal vesicle; the alterations caused in the reproductive organs as well as the number, motility, viability, and morphology of caudal spermatozoa were, however, severe in mice treated with the benzene extract of Hibiscus compared to controls and those treated with other extracts of the plant. The level of sialic acid in the epididymis and that of fructose in the seminal vesicle were adversely affected in Hibiscus-treated mice with no significant differences among treated groups. The fertility was reduced significantly in benzene extract-treated males, though, libido remained unaffected after Hibiscus treatment compared to controls. Further, treatment with Hibiscus did not alter histological features of the liver and kidney, levels of ALT, AST, and creatinine in serum, and hematological indices compared to controls.

Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that the treatment with benzene leaf extract of H. rosa-sinensis results in suppression of spermatogenesis and fertility in albino mice, and therefore, Hibiscus might be a source of a male contraceptive of plant origin.