The Effect of Khaya senegalensis on the Endometrial and Vaginal Epithelium: A Histological and Morphometrical Study

Abstract

Introduction: Khaya senegalensis is a plant with many medicinal uses and application which could serve as an available and alternative source of medication. It has been used traditionally as an abortifacient agent following folkloric information handed down by word mouth. The aim of this study is to validate this claim by investigating the effect of the extract on the endometrial and vaginal epithelium. Methodology: Four groups of albino rats were administered different dosages of the extract orally and after 28 days, the rats were sacrificed. The micrographs of the uterus and vagina were studied for histologically observations. Morphometric analysis was also carried out to determine the thickness of the epithelial lining in all groups. Measurements were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s multiple comparisons test using GraphPad Prism. Results: Histological observations showed that the extract at a concentration of 50mg/kg and 200mg/kg disrupted the epithelial lining and as the concentrations administered increased, surface and stromal endometrial glands became smaller and sparse and the endometrial stroma became less compact. Morphometric analysis revealed a significant increase of endometrial epithelium in the group administered the least concentration of the extract. Vaginal epithelial thickness was also significantly reduced in all groups. Conclusion: Results obtained suggests that the extract has an anti-fertility effect on the lining of the uterus and vagina. Further studies are recommended.