Potential efficacy of extracts of Pimpinela alpina, Tribulus terestris and Eurycoma longifolia in increasing sexual activity in male wistar rats

Abstract

Sexual dysfunction includes erectile dysfunction or impotence, ejaculation dysfunction and hypogonadism. It is a serious public health problem among young as well as old men worldwide, with a prevalence of more than 20%. In Indonesia, many indigenous plants have sex-stimulating effects include Tribulus terestris (tribulus), Eurycoma longifolia (pasak bumi) and Pimpinela alpina (purwoceng). In the present study, we evaluated the combination of T. terestris, E. longifolia and P. alpina (purwoceng) on the sexual behavior of male rats. Male Wistar rats were randomized to five groups (6 rats/group). Group 1: negative control. Group 2: positive control (sildenafil citrate 5 mg/kg b.w). Groups 3, 4 and 5: treatment with extract combination at 250 mg/kg b.w., 500 mg/kg b.w., 1000 mg/kg b.w. Mating behavior and mating performance were evaluated. Testosterone, FSH and LH were assayed by ELISA. The results showed that the extract combination (1000 mg/kg b.w.) significantly increased the frequency of mounting and intromission in comparison to the sildenafil group. The extract combination (1000 mg/kg b.w) increased serum hormone levels in comparison to sildenafil. It can be concluded that the extract combination at a dose of 1000 mg/kg b.w. increased sexual activity and hormonal concentrations in comparison to sildenafil treatment.