Biology and Medicine

Abstract

Reproductive impact of aqueous leaf extract of Mangifera indica (Mango) on some reproductive functions in female Sprague-Dawley rats

Funmileyi O. Awobajo, Ibiyemi I. Olatunji-Bello, Loretta I. Ogbewey

Reproductive impact of oral administration of aqueous leaf extract of Mangifera indica (MILE)at a dose of 500mg/kg was investigated. The first set of non-gravid rats was used to study hormonal and estrous cycling pattern after four weeks of extract administration. Estrous cycle was monitored by vagina smear technique, weekly weight recorded, and serum collected at the end of treatment period. The second set of gravid rats treated with extract during pregnancy was used to study effects on pregnancy and its outcome. Weekly weights were recorded and the number of viable fetus and resorption sites were counted on gestational day 19 after laparotomy. Number and weight of litter delivered were also recorded. The extract significantly reduced weight gained while there was also disruption of estrous cycling. Serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level and litter birth weights were also significantly reduced. There was no effect on the number of viable fetus and duration of pregnancy. These results revealed that oral administration of aqueous MILE reduced weight gain, disrupted estrous cycling, reduced serum FSH while increasing estradiol level in non-pregnant rats. It also reduced maternal weight and litter birth weight. However, it has no significant effect on duration of pregnancy.