Retention of testicular integrity and testosterone levels upon ingestion of garlic cloves (Allium sativum) in the Sprague-Dawley rat

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effects of acute and chronic aqueous garlic extract ingestion on testicular cellular integrity and serum testosterone levels. Methods: Twenty (20) male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing an average of 120 g were used. Animals were divided into three groups. Group A served as control (10 rats for 28 and 56 d respectively), while treatment Groups B and C were given 200 mg/kg for Allium sativum (garlic cloves) extract for 28 and 56 d respectively. Results: Histological analysis revealed the presence of all spermatogenic lineages, appearance of proliferative activities in the interstitial cells, as well as increased serum testosterone levels. Conclusions: This study confirmed proliferative and restorative potentials in both acute and chronic garlic ingestion.

Keywords

• Allium sativum
• Testis
• Testosterone