Potential antifertility activity of aqueous Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seed extract in female albino rats

Abstract

Oral Contraceptive Pill (OCP) is one of the most common contraceptive methods used in modern world. However, its adverse effect have prompted women in Nigeria and worldwide to rely on alternative traditional herbs. In this perspective, female albino rats were used to evaluate the potential anti-fertility effects of Aqueous Fenugreek Seed Extract (AFSE). The rats were randomly assigned into six (6) groups and administered AFSE doses of 150, 375 and 750 mg/kg bw, Levofem® (10mg/kg) (standard drug) or
distilled water orally once daily orally day 0 to 21 of pregnancy. The impact of these supplementations on implantation rates and female fertility hormones was assessed after the treatment period. Additionally, arbortifacient effect of the AFSE was evaluated in pregnant rats. The result showed significant reduction of estradiol, FSH and LH levels (P<0.05) in all treated groups compared to the negative control. While the standard drug treatment significantly increased (P<0.05) the uterine weight, the AFSE extracts had no effect when compared to the negative control. Furthermore, over the treatment period, no of pregnancy or pregnancy termination were recorded in all AFSE treated groups whereas the pregnant control group had 8.17 fetuses. The hypogonadal hormonal levels was further supported by proliferative changes and increase in endometrial gland activity in AFSE groups
compared to the negative control. The positive control group also showed increased number and activity of the endometrial glands, with hyperplastic changes and enhanced secretory activity. These findings is suggestive of the fact that AFSE extract may have potential antifertility activity, with the high dose hormonal profile indicating greater efficacy than marketed contraceptive pill. However, further studies on the sub-chronic and bioactive components of the aqueous fenugreek seed are recommended.