The effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Salvia sahendica on sperm parameters quality and reproductive hormones in rats exposed to Aluminum

Abstract

Background: There is a growing focus on aluminum compounds due to their significant impact on fertility, and reproduction. Natural products offer a promising solution for treating heavy metal toxicity as they are effective, have fewer side effects, and are relatively affordable. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of Salvia sahendica hydroalcoholic extract on reproductive toxicity induced by aluminum (Al) exposure in rats. Methods: Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control, AlCl3 orally administered group (40 mg/kg bw), S. sahendica hydroalcoholic extract gavaged group (100 mg/kg bw), and AlCl3+ S. sahendica treated group. The rats were treated daily for 70 consecutive days. Results: Oral administration of AlCl3 resulted in oxidative damage, indicated by an increase in malondialdehyde level and a decrease in total antioxidant content. Additionally, AlCl3-intoxicated rats exhibited significant declines in serum levels of male reproductive hormones testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). However, daily administration of S. sahendica to rats before AlCl3 was found to reduce testicular oxidative stress and improve reproductive markers in the serum, ameliorating the reproductive toxicity induced by Al administration. Conclusion: These findings suggest that S. sahendica could potentially be used as an alternative agent to minimize reproductive toxicity associated with Al exposure.

Keywords

• aluminum
• salvia sahendica
• oxidative stress
• reproductive toxicity
• sex hormones
• male rats