Labisia Pumila has Similar Effects to Estrogen on the Reproductive Hormones of Ovariectomised Rats.

Abstract

Introduction: The use of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) in postmenopausal women has been linked to increased risks of endometrial and breast cancer. Labisia pumila (LP) which has been used traditionally for women’s health is a potential alternative agent for ERT. In this study we have compared the effects of LP aqueous extract to ERT (Premarin®) on reproductive hormones using ovariectomized rat model. Methods: Thirty-four ovariectomized rats were divided into five groups, A, B, C, D and E. Group A (the ovariectomized-control group) was given distilled water. Group B was given Premarin 0.07 mg/kg body weight. Groups C, D and E were given LP at doses of 17.5, 35.0 and 70.0 mg/kg body weight, respectively. All treatments were given by daily oral gavages. Blood samples were taken through the tails at 30, 60 and 90 days of treatment for plasma follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, androsteinedione and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S) analysis.Results: The results showed that 60-day treatment with LP at doses of 17.5 mg/kg body weight resembled the effects of Premarin whereby there were significant elevation of estrogen and testosterone levels, suppression of FSH and LH levels compared to ovariectomized-control group. The androsteindione and DHEA-S levels were not altered. Other doses or duration of treatment with LP gave inconsistent results. Conclusions: LP has shown potential as alternative to ERT which would require further study. The equivalent human dose of LP should be considered based on the dose of 17.5 mg/kg body weight and 60 days of treatment in ovariectomized rats.