Effect of Coriandrum sativum, a common herbal medicine, on endocrine and reproductive organ structure and function

Abstract

We investigated the effects of Coriandrum sativum seeds, used to treat hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, on endocrine functions and structures. Healthy adult male rabbits (n = 20) were randomly divided into two groups: control group and treatment group (250 mg/kg Coriandrum sativum seed aqueous extract). Fasting blood samples were taken in the morning on day 0 (baseline) and day 4 of the 7-day treatment, and day 1 and day 8 post-treatment. Significant changes in cortisol levels occurred during the treatment period, but they could not be attributed to Coriandrum sativum treatment. Testosterone, glucose, and cholesterol were not significantly altered after treatment compared to control or baseline levels. No histopathological changes were observed in the epididymis, pancreas, testis interstitial tissue, or seminiferous tubules. The traditional herbal medicine, Coriandrum sativum, does not appear to exert negative effects on testosterone or cholesterol levels, nor on the reproductive or endocrine functions. The interrelationship between metabolism and gonad functions is an important concern when medicinal plants are used; therefore, use of Coriander sativum requires further study before it can be recommended for use as a medicinal plant.