Lactogenic activity of ethanolic extract of Pluchea indica Less leaf in lactating rats

Abstract

Introduction: The leaves of Pluchea indica (L.) Less is empirically used to enhance milk production. This study aimed to evaluate the lactogenic effect of ethanolic extract of P. indica leaves (EPI) on milk production, prolactin, cortisol, oxytocin levels, and histological changes of mammary tissue in lactating rats and weight gain of their pups. Methods: Twenty-five lactating rats with six pups were randomized into five groups. The groups were control (reverse osmosis water), standard (domperidone 2.5 mg/kg BW), and EPI (250, 500, and 750 mg/kg BW). The daily treatments were administered by oral gavage, starting from the second day until day 15 of parturition. Milk production and the weight of the pups were measured daily. Serum prolactin, cortisol, and oxytocin levels in the lactating rats were determined by enzyme immunoassay. Histomorphological alterations of mammary tissues were investigated by hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA tests and P0.05). Conclusion: Pluchea indica leaves revealed lactogenic activity in lactating rats.

Keywords

• prolactin
• mammary gland
• medicinal plant
• lactation
• plant extraction