Evaluation of Varying Concentrations of <i>Mucuna Pruriens</i> Seed Powder on Testosterone, Glutathione and Catalase Levels of Male Albino Wistar Rats

Abstract

The antioxidant and aphrodisiac properties of Mucuna pruriens seed powder extract have been documented in the literature. This study evaluated the  effect of varying concentrations of Mucuna pruriens seed powder on testosterone, antioxidant and semen parameters of male albino rats. Thirty rats were  grouped into four; controls, and three other groups each respectively administered 0.4, 0.8 and 1.2mL extracts of Mucuna pruriens seed powder.  The analytes were evaluated using standard methods. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Serum and seminal catalase was significantly higher  (p=0.031, p=0.003) in the group 3 rats than the groups 1 and 2 rats. Seminal testosterone was significantly higher (p= 0.004) in group 3 rats than other  groups. Groups 2 and 3 rats had the greatest improvement as observed in their sperm counts and catalase activity. Owing to the results recorded in this  study, oral administration of Mucuna pruriens seed powder extract can improve testicular antioxidant and sperm count in combating infertility.