Studing effects of different doses of saffron (Crocus sativus) decoction in implantation in mice

Abstract

The aim of study was to assess the effects of non toxic doses of aqueous saffron decoction (0.8% & 0.4%) on contraceptive attributes in mice. In this study 15 female BALB/c mice, weighting 25–30 grams, were randomly divided into 3 equal groups. 2 groups were fed by saffron solutions (0.4% & 0.8%) before the mating process. The day on which the vaginal plaque was observed, was considered as the first day of pregnancy. The pregnant mice were divided into 3 subgroups and placed in separate cages throughout the gestational period and were acclimatized and fed in the same conditions. Animals in all group received tape water in whole gestational period. In 20th day of pregnancy, animals were anesthetized and their foetuses were extracted through a cesarean section. The placenta was excised, weighed, and the number and placement of implantation sites and other parameters were recorded. Mean number of live, dead or resorbed foetuses in animals receiving saffron extracts before the mating were dose dependently less than in the control group. A maximum decrease was observed in animals receiving 0.8% saffron solution. Saffron and its components may affect embryonic implantation and may result in contraceptive-like effects.