Biotherapeutic sufficiency of virgin coconut oil on paraquat-mediated reproductive dysfunction

Abstract

Introduction: Paraquat (PQ) affects male reproductive health with the risk of infertility. Virgin coconut oil (VCO) has antioxidative and fertility properties. Thus, the histology of the testis and seminal vesicles, spermatic indices, testosterone, malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase level in Wistar rats exposed to PQ and treated with VCO was investigated. Material and Methods: Twenty-four rats (150–200 g) were divided into groupings (A-D) with six rats per group. Control (Group A) had a daily dose of 5 ml/kg of normal saline (NS) throughout the experimental period of 24 days. Group B received NS and oral dose of 12.75 mg/kg of PQ at the last 3 days of the experiment. Groups C and D were treated with 5 ml/kg and 10 ml/kg of VCO, respectively, for 21 days before PQ. The rats were then sacrificed. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis and the organs were harvested for histology. Results: There was no significant rise in MDA except in Group B. Groups C and D had significant decreases in sperm cells with unconventional pinhead, contrasting difference in active motile cells and testosterone when compared to Group B (P < 0.05). Normalcy in sperm count and a decrease in sperm cells with headless tails were only seen in Group C (P < 0.05). Histological evaluations showed minimal damage in VCO-treated groups. Discussion and Conclusion: VCO has a promising effect against PQ by modulating the activities of its free radicals in a dose-dependent manner.