Evaluation of the Ameliorative Potential of Some Fertility Herbal Supplements on Male Fertility Hormones and Semen Parameters of Lead Acetate Induced Toxicity in Albino Rats

Abstract

Background and Objective: Herbal substances are used by many societies to treat health challenges and curb fertility issues. This study evaluated the efficacy of three different male fertility herbal supplements (Libron herbal, Mascum herbal pride and Energy 3000) in ameliorating lead acetate-induced infertility in adult male albino rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty male rats were grouped A (negative control), B (positive control), C (Libron-treated), D (Mascum-treated) and E (Energy 3000-treated). Lead acetate (60 mg/kg) was used to induce male infertility in all groups except the negative control. The tars were treated with the herbal supplements for 28 days after which they were sacrificed. Blood samples were collected for analysis using standard laboratory methods while the testes were harvested for histological examination. Semen analysis was microscopically evaluated. Data obtained were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: The mean testosterone values for Mascum treated group (3.65±0.79 ng/mL) and Energy 3000 treated group (3.56±0.56 ng/mL) were significantly (p<0.05) higher than the positive control group (1.58±0.22 ng/mL) but significantly (p<0.05) lower than the negative control (p<0.001). The mean LH levels of Libron herbal (37.10±2.93 mIU/mL) and Mascum herbal (32.53±2.92 mIU/mL) were not significantly higher than that of the positive control whereas, FSH and Inhibin B levels of the treated groups were significantly (p<0.05) higher than that of the positive control apart from mean values of FSH in Energy 3000 treated group. Conclusion: Mascum herbal and Energy 3000 used in this study showed some ameliorative potential in the management of male reproductive challenges. It is thus recommended that studies be done to establish the efficacy of different herbal supplements out there in the open market.