Evaluation of reversible contraceptive activities of <i>Annona squamosa</i> (Linn.) stem bark methanol extract in male rats

Abstract

The allege by some previous studies Annona squamosa showed antifertility properties, however no systematic and detailed study was undertaken till yet. Therefore the present study was undertaken to evaluate the contraceptive activities of methanol extract of the stem bark of Annoa squamosa L. (Annonaceae) with their respective reversibility in male rats. Proven fertile male rats were gavaged 100% methanol extract of A. squamosa stem bark at the dose level of 50, 100 and 200 mg/rat/day for 60 days. Fertility was declined up to 100% at the dose level 200 mg/rat/day. Sperm motility and density were reduced significantly (P<0.05) as well as other parameters related to the fertility were also significantly reduced. The extract feeding caused a marked reduction in the number of testicular cell population, seminiferous tubular diameters as well as in the number of mature Leydig cells. The serum testosterone level was also decreased significantly (P<0.05). The findings of the study support contraceptive allege of Annoa squamosa however this contraceptive activity was reversible after withdrawal of the drug treatment.

Key words: Annona squamosa, sperm dynamics, testicular cell population, contraceptive activity.