Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Emilia Sonchifolia, Bridelia Ferruginea and Stem Bark Extract of Rhizophora Racemosa on Petrol Fume-Induced Reproductive Hormones Imbalance in Male Wistar Rats
Abstract
Background: Breathing in petrol fumes, composed of diverse hydrocarbons, can impair male reproductive function by triggering oxidative damage. This oxidative stress interferes with the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, leading to disruptions in key reproductive hormones. Given the limitations of standard treatments, medicinal plants rich in antioxidants may offer a beneficial alternative. Objective: This study investigated and compared the protective effects of extracts from Emilia sonchifolia leaves, Bridelia ferruginea leaves, and Rhizophora racemosa stem bark against petrol fume–induced hormonal imbalances in male Wistar rats. Methods: Fifty-four male rats were divided into nine groups of six. Aside from the normal control group, all animals were exposed to petrol vapors for four hours daily over 28 days. Throughout the exposure period, treatment groups received oral doses of the plant extracts (200 or 400 mg/kg body weight) or Vitamin E (200 mg/kg) as a standard antioxidant. Serum levels of testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and prolactin were measured using ELISA at predetermined intervals. Results: Exposure to petrol fumes caused a significant (p < 0.05) decline in testosterone, LH, and FSH, accompanied by a rise in prolactin. Each plant extract, at both dosage levels, effectively countered these disruptions, with the 400 mg/kg dose producing stronger restorative effects. Hormonal recovery in these groups was comparable to that observed with Vitamin E treatment. Conclusion: Aqueous extracts of Emilia sonchifolia, Bridelia ferruginea, and Rhizophora racemosa demonstrated substantial protective activity against petrol vapor–induced endocrine disturbances. Their efficacy, likely linked to their antioxidant-rich phytochemical composition, suggests potential therapeutic value for managing toxin-related hormonal disorders and male infertility