Effect of Malacca Leaf (Phyllanthus emblica) Infusion on Sperm Quality in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) not only disrupts metabolic functions but also causes various complications, including reproductive disorders. Malacca (Phyllanthus emblica) leaves are known for their medicinal properties and may have beneficial effects on spermatozoa quality in diabetic conditions. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Malacca leaf infusion on sperm quality in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Twelve male rats were randomly assigned into four groups (n=3): a positive control group receiving distilled water, a negative control group induced with STZ at 30 mg/kg BW, and two treatment groups induced with STZ followed by Malacca leaf infusion administration at doses of 100 mg/kg BW and 150 mg/kg BW. The infusion was administered orally via gastric gavage. Sperm motility, viability, morphology, and concentration were evaluated 22 days after treatment. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: STZ-induced diabetic rats exhibited significant reductions in sperm motility, viability, and concentration (P<0.05), accompanied by a significant increase in abnormal sperm morphology (P<0.05) compared with the positive control group. Administration of Malacca leaf infusion improved all sperm quality parameters, with the greatest improvement observed in the group receiving 150 mg/kg BW. These findings indicate a dose-dependent beneficial effect of Malacca leaf infusion on spermatozoa quality under diabetic conditions. Conclusion: Malacca leaf infusion has the potential to ameliorate spermatozoa quality in STZ-induced diabetic rats. The results suggest that this herbal preparation may serve as a promising therapeutic agent for managing diabetes mellitus-associated reproductive dysfunction.