Histological and Hormonal Changes of Methanol Seed Extract of Azanza Garckeana on the Uterus of Wistar Rats

Abstract

Introduction: Unconfirmed safety margin of herbal plants could cause uterine toxicity.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the hormonal and histological changes in the uterus of female Wistar rats following the administration of methanol seed extract of Azanza garckeana (MEAG) seed. 

Methodolody: Phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity of the MEAG seed was conducted using Up and Down method. Twenty-five female Wistar rats with weight 150 -190g and at least two consecutive regular estrous cycle were divided into five groups of 5 rats each, receiving 1 ml/Kg body weight of  normal saline for control, 250, 500, 1000, and 1500 mg/kg body weight of MEAG, intraperitoneally for eight days. Doses were extrapolated as published. After sacrifice, body weight was measured, serum hormonal levels were assayed for progesterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), lutenizing hormone (LH) and estrogen; uterus were weighed and processed histologically.

Results: There was reduction in body weight in the 1000 and 1500 mg/kg body weight group, increase in uterine weight in all groups, levels of estrogen were increased in the 250mg, 1000mg and 1500mg/Kg body weight and progesterone, FSH and LH levels decreased in all groups though not significant. No significant change in uterine histology. Hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the uterine epithelium in high dose groups.

Conclusion The study shows that the extract is relatively safe on the uterus and female reproductive hormones except for weight loss at high doses.