Investigating Fenugreek Seed Aqueous Extract on Sperm Parameters in Selected Type II Rats

Abstract

Background & objectives: Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is one of the most ancient and well-known medicinal plants, and its useful role has been well - established in treating of many diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Fenugreek on spermatogenesis, total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde (MDA) level in male diabetic rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 24 male Wistar rats weighing approximately 200±20 gram were used. The rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of six. group1: control group, Group2: diabetic, Group3: diabetic+Fenugreek (8gram /kg diet), group4: diabetic+Fenugreek (2gram /kg diet). This treatment continued for 4 weeks. Blood glucose, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, and sperm profiles were determined. Results: Blood glucose in diabetic rats which received Fenugreek significantly reduced compared with diabetic animals. Fenugreek also reduced body weight and MDA level of semen (p<0.05).On the other hand, Fenugreek increased the total antioxidant capacity of semen (p<0.05) and normalized sperm profiles (p<0.05). Conclusion: According to the present results, it can be concluded that consumption of Fenugreek extract probably reduced MDA level, body weight, and normalized sperm profile thus, Fenugreek extract can be used to treat sexual dysfunction in males.

Keywords

• antioxidant
• sperm
• testis
• diabetes
• rat
• aqueous extract of fenugreek