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Leaf-Methanolic Extract of Pseudopanax arboreus (Araliaceae) (L. F. Phillipson) Reverses Amitriptyline-Induced Sexual Dysfunction in Male Rats

The people of the Bayangi tribe (Manyu Division) of Cameroon have used the leaves of Pseudopanax arboreus (Araliaceae) traditionally for decades as an aphrodisiac. In order to scientifically investigate this folk claim, we evaluated the effects of the leaf-aqueous extract of P. arboreus on the sexual behavior of normal male rats. The present study was designed to assess the effects of the leaf-methanolic extract of P. arboreus on amitriptyline-induced sexual dysfunction in male rats. Sexually impaired male rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of 8 rats each. Group 1 received 10 ml/kg distilled water, while group 2 was given 6 mg/kg Viagra. Groups 3 and 4 received 46.5 and 93 mg/kg of the leaf-methanolic extract, respectively. Female rats were made receptive by ovariectomy and subsequent hormonal treatment. Sexual behavior parameters were monitored on days 1, 7, 14, and 21 by pairing each male to a receptive female. The extract-treated rats registered significant decrease in mount latency (ML) and intromission latency (IL); nonsignificant increase in mount frequency (MF), intromission frequency (IF), and penile licking (PL); significant decrease in postejaculatory interval (PEI); contrasting effects in ejaculation latency (EL); and mean intromission interval (MII). Both doses of the extract also provoked a significant increase in relative weight of testes, but had no significant effect on the plasma hormonal profile. These findings are similar to those obtained with normal male rats and show that the leaf-methanolic extract of P. arboreus could constitute a potential solution to male sexual impairment.

Aphrodisiac properties of hydro-alcoholic extract ofCassia auriculataflower in male rats

Cassia auriculata is a commonly found plant in Asia, widely used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicines as a tonic, astringent and in general for diabetes. Herbal tea made from this plant has been marketed as a product for restoring sexual vitality, to increase sperm count and counteract ejaculatory disorders. However, the scientific evidences are scarce to prove this concept. Here, we examined the effect of hydro-alcoholic extract obtained from C.auriculata flower upon the expression of male Wistar albino rat's sexual behaviour. Sildenafil was used as a positive control. Penile erection index (PEI), mount latency (ML), intromission latency (IL), ejaculation latency (EL), mounting frequency (MF), intromission frequency (IF), ejaculation frequency (EF) and post-ejaculatory interval (PEjI) were recorded for days 0, 7, 14 and 28 and also after the withdrawal of the treatment on days 7 and 15. Significant reduction in ML, IL and PEjI, and increment in EL, PEI, MF, IF and EF were observed (p<0.05, <0.01). However, neither extract nor sildenafil sustains the effect after withdrawal of the treatment. The present finding demonstrates the aphrodisiac potential of hydro-alcoholic extract of C.auriculata flower in vivo and lends support to the traditional utilisation as a sexual stimulating agent.

021 Potential role of 5-HT serotonin system in the rat spinal cord of premature ejaculation with category III prostatitis

To explore the mechanism of premature ejaculation in rat with category III prostatitis, or chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). We establish rat model of experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) by subcutaneous multiple point's injection of male prostate gland extract emulsified in an equal volume of Freund’s adjuvant at the 0 and 21th day. The behavioral change and the sexual behavior was investigated. Then, We took out the hippocampus tissue, T13-L2 and L5- S2 spinal cord tissue after perfusion, and detected the levels of 5-HT, 5-HT1A receptor, 5-HT2C receptor and SERT in these tissues by immunohistochemical staining. The levels of 5-HT, 5-HT1A receptor, 5-HT2C receptor and SERT in the remaining rats were detected by Western Blot. The EAP model was built successfully. Serum IL- 1β and TNF-α± levels in the model were significantly higher than control (p<0.01). In the copulatory test, compared with normal control group, mount frequency (MF), intromission frequency (IF) and ejaculation frequency (EF) in the model group were significantly decreased (p <0.05); mount latency (ML), intromission latency (IL) and postejaculatory interval (PEI) in the model group were significantly shortened(p <0.05); ejaculation latency (EL) in the model group was significantly significantly prolonged (p <0.05). In hippocampus tissue, 5-HT levels in the model were significantly lower than normal (p<0.05), whereas 5-HT1A, 5-HT2C and SERT levels in the model were significantly higher than normal (p<0.05). In T13-L2 spinal cord tissue, 5-HT levels in the model were significantly lower (p<0.05), 5-HT1A receptor levels in the model were significantly increased (p<0.05). In L5-S2 spinal cord tissues, 5-HT levels in the model were significantly lower (p<0.05), while the 5-HT1A, 5-HT2C and SERT levels in the model increased slightly, but the differences in 5-HT1A, 5-HT2C and SERT levels between the two group were statistically significant (p<0.05).

215 Mechanisms underlying the sexual inhibitory effect of tramadol; a study in serotonin transporter knockout rats

To investigate whether the inhibitory effects of tramadol on sexual behavior are solely due to the blockade of the serotonin (5-HT) transporter (SERT), using SERT knockout rats (SERT-/-). A crossover and randomized design was performed with 36 sexually experienced male Wistar rats (SERT+/+, SERT+/-, SERT-/-; N=12 each). Rats received acute intraperitoneal doses of 0, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 50 mg/kg tramadol hydrochloride. Furthermore, WAY100635 (5-HT1A receptor antagonist) was tested in doses 0, 0.1, 0.3 and 1 mg/kg IP and naloxone hydrochloride (μ-opioid receptor antagonist) in doses 0, 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, IP. Finally, we tested combinations of vehicle + vehicle, vehicle + tramadol (20 mg/kg), tramadol (20mg/kg) + WAY (0.3 mg/kg), tramadol (20mg/kg) + naloxone (20mg/kg), and tramadol (20mg/kg), + WAY (0.3 mg/kg) + naloxone (20 mg/kg). Experiments were performed over several months on a 30-min sexual behavior test. In all SERT groups, intermediate and high doses of tramadol (20, 40 and 50 mg/kg) significantly decreased ejaculation, mount and intromission frequencies and at the highest dose a total inhibition effect was present. The latencies of ejaculation, mount and intromission were increased which in combination with the decreased frequencies resulted in a decreased efficiency to achieve ejaculation. WAY100635, did not affect sexual behavior in SERT+/+ animals. In accordance with previous findings, sexual behavior was inhibited in SERT-/- animals. Naloxone alone had no effect on sexual behavior, but in combination with WAY100635 or naloxone, tramadol strongly inhibited all sexual behavior parameters. The mixture of tramadol, WAY100635 and naloxone lead to complete elimination of sexual behavior in all groups.

Chemically characterised extract of Saraca asoca improves the sexual function in male Wistar rats.

In this study, methanolic extract of Saraca asoca bark was evaluated for its aphrodisiac potential using male and female Wistar albino rats. Male rats were dosed daily for 54days at a dose of 100mg/kg p.o. Sexual activity of male rats was assessed after 14, 28, 42 and 54days of the study. Male rats were placed in a glass chamber lit with a dim red light (10W) followed by the introduction of sexually receptive female rats in a ratio of 1:1. Improvement in sexual behaviour of male rats was characterised by an increase in both mount frequency and intromission frequency and decrease or reduction in mount latency and intromission latency compared to normal control. After completion of the study, the effect of the S.asoca extract on sperm count, sperm motility and sperm morphology was also assessed. The extract of S.asoca bark was found to be safe as it did not affect these sperm parameters. From this study, it was found that methanolic extract of S.asoca bark plays a role in enhancing sexual behaviour and potential without causing reproductive toxicity.

Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Capparis decidua (Forssk.) Edgew on Sexual Behavior of Male Rats

Capparis decidua has traditionally been recommended as an aphrodisiac agent. Although, it's medicinal use has not been scientifically proved. The present study therefore evaluated the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of C. decidua roots, stem and leaf on sexual behavior in normal male rats. The hydroalcoholic extract of C. decidua was administered (100 mg/kg, 200mg/kg) to different groups of male wistar rats for 28 days. The female rats were brought in estrous phase before the mating in each group of male rats. Standard group was administered sildenafil citrate at 5mg/kg orally for 28 days. Control group was administered only distilled water. All the experimental groups i.e C. decidua 100mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, per se group (only C. decidua 200 mg/kg), standard group(sildenafil citrate 5mg/kg) were compared with the control group for parameters evaluated for sexual behavior study. C. decidua at 100mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and per se treated groups produced significant arousal of sexual activity in male rats. They significantly increased the frequencies of mount, intromission frequency. The mount latency and intromission latency were significantly reduced but ejaculation latency was prolonged significantly. The results indicated that hydroalcoholic extract of C. decidua enhanced sexual behaviour in male rats. The enhanced sexual behavior in male rats at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight may be due to the presence of phytochemicals like alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids as these phytochemicals has role in increasing sexual strength, androgen enhancing, and antioxidant activity.

A Preliminary Study of Aphrodisiac Property from Porcupine Tail Meat Ethanol Extract in Male Mice

This study aim to examine the aphrodisiac activity of ethanol extract from the tail meat of porcupine (Hystrix javanica F. Cuvier, 1823) that is traditionally believed by people in Java (Indonesia) could enhance male vitality and sexual perfor-mance. Twenty sexually inexperienced male mice were randomly divided into four groups and paired with artificially estrus female mice after one hour of drug an extract administration. Two doses of ethanol extract; 150 and 750 mg/kg were administered (p.o) to male mice. Sildenafil citrate was used as the positive control while 5% Tween 80 solution used as the negative control. Sexual behavior parameters such as mounting and intromission were observed for three hours of mating. Male mice treated with ethanol extract of porcupine tail meat at the dose 750 mg/kg BW showed higher mounting and intromission frequency compared to the group of ethanol extract dose 150 mg/kg. After 2 hours of admin-istration showed the highest frequency compared to all groups. However, the ethanol extract could not reduce the mount-ing and intromission latency as low as sildenafil citrated treated group. Present findings provide preliminary evidence of aphrodisiac properties from the ethanol extract of porcupine tail meat.

Brysocarpus coccineus (Schum & Thonn) root reinstates sexual competence and testicular function in paroxetine-induced sexual dysfunction in male Wistar rats.

The effects of aqueous extract of Brysocarpus coccineus roots (AEBCR) were studied on sexual behaviour and testicular function of paroxetine-induced sexual dysfunction (SD) in male rats. Ninety, sexually matured male rats (150.88±5.53g) were assigned into two groups: A and B. Fifteen SD animals from group B were each allotted to B1, B2, B3, B4 and B5 and received distilled water (DW), Powmax M (7.14mg/kg body weight, b.w.) 50, 100 and 150mg/kg b.w of AEBCR, respectively, for 7days while the non-SD animals (group A) received DW. Eleven secondary metabolites were present in AEBCR. The lowered (p<.05) ejaculation frequency, penile erection index and penile grooming, higher mount and intromission frequencies, prolonged (p<.05) latencies of mount, intromission, ejaculation, and post-ejaculatory interval, reduced (p<.05) serum luteinising hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone, nitric oxide and testicular function indices, degenerated seminiferous tubules and low luminal spermatozoa contents by paroxetine were significantly (p<.05) attenuated and/or reinstated by AEBCR and Powmax M. The restoration of androgen-dependent sexual and testicular functions in SD male rats by AEBCR validates its folkloric use as aphrodisiac. Clinical studies are desirable to ascertain the efficacy of AEBCR in SD.

Effect of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni extract on sexual dysfunction in Streptozotocin-induced diabetic male rats.

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni has been used locally as a non-calorie sweetener in medicine and diabetic diet which claimed to have aphrodisiac properties, although no scientific data of this function have been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of S. rebaudiana extract on sexual dysfunction, testosterone levels and number of Leydig cells in Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male rats. A total of 28 diabetic male rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: diabetic group without any extract and 3 extract groups (5, 50 and 100 mg/kg). Seven normal control rats were treated with vehicle mount latency and frequency of (ML, MF), intromission latency and frequency (IL, IF), ejaculation latency and frequency of (EL, EF), the mount latency post ejaculation (MPE), the intromission latency post ejaculation (ILE), the intromission frequency post ejaculation (IFE) were recorded during 30 min on days 0, 14, 28. The serum testosterone levels, blood glucose, sex organs weight, number of leydig cells and histology of testicular tissue were measured. The stevia group (5 mg/kg) had a significant (p&lt;0.05) increase in EF and IF. The number of Leydig cells in the diabetic group were significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced compared to the normal group and diabetic groups with extract (5 and 50 mg/kg). The serum testosterone levels and other sexual behaviors did not show any significant differences. The low- dose stevia extract with attention to antioxidant, vasodilator and anti-diabetic properties can be aphrodisiac in STZ- induced diabetic male rats.

Long-term chemical castration induces depressive symptoms by suppressing serotonin expression in rats

ABSTRACTAndrogen deprivation therapy, also known as chemical castration, has been used as an adjunct to psychotherapy for sex offenders. Goserelin and bicalutamide are drugs used for chemical castration. Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) is a key neurotransmitter involved in mood changes, such as depression. We investigated the effects of surgical and chemical castration on depressive symptoms in rats. Surgical castration was performed through a bilateral orchiectomy. Bicalutamide was administrated orally once a day for 84 consecutive days. Goserelin acetate was implanted subcutaneously into the anterior abdominal wall, and this implantation was repeated 3 times at 28-day intervals. Testosterone levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Sexual behaviors were analyzed by measuring mount latency, mount frequency, intromission latency, and intromission frequency. The forced swimming test was performed to evaluate rats’ depression status. To detect 5-HT and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH)-positive cells in the dorsal raphe, immunohistochemistry for 5-HT and TPH and western blotting for 5-HT1A receptors and TPH were performed. Surgical castration and goserelin decreased testosterone levels and suppressed sexual behaviors. However, bicalutamide did not inhibit sexual behaviors, although it reduced testosterone levels to a limited extent. Both surgical and chemical castration induced depression in rats. The expression of 5-HT, TPH, and 5-HT1A receptors in the dorsal raphe was significantly decreased by both surgical castration and chemical castration via bicalutamide and goserelin. The present results showed that surgical and chemical castration for 12 weeks induced a depressive state in rats by inhibiting serotonergic function through 5-HT1A receptors.

Evaluation of aphrodisiac activity of AHPL/AYCAP/0114 capsule in sexually sluggish male rats

Background: Male sexual dysfunction includes a wide range of problems such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation, for which medical help is sought. The conventional use of various pharmacological and nonpharmacological measures are associated with multiple adverse events. Hence, a polyherbal formulation AHPL/AYCAP/0114 capsule was developed to provide safe and effective therapeutic option. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the aphrodisiac potential of AHPL/AYCAP/0114 capsule by assessing sexual behavior parameters such as mount frequency (MF), mount latency (ML), intromission frequency (IF), intromission latency (IL), ejaculation latency (EL), and ejaculation frequency (EF) in sexually sluggish male rats. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into six groups (n = 6) and treated with testosterone (30 mg/kg), sildenafil citrate (0.5 mg/kg), and AHPL/AYCAP/0114 capsule (110, 220, and 440 mg/kg) as Group II, Group III, and Group IV, V, and VI, respectively, for 28 days. Group I animals served as control. Then, they were introduced to sexually active female rats and their sexual behavior was recorded. Results: A significant increase in MF, IF, and EF was observed in all the AHPL/AYCAP/0114 capsule groups as compared to control group. A significant decrease in ML, IL, and EL was observed in all the AHPL/AYCAP/0114 capsule groups as compared to control group. AHPL/AYCAP/0114 capsule was well tolerated by rats. Discussion: Increase in MF, IF, and EF and reduction in ML, IL, and EL are indicative of increased sexual motivation and arousal and prolonged duration of coitus. This suggests enhanced sexual performance in sexually sluggish animals treated with AHPL/AYCAP/0114 capsule. Conclusion: It can be concluded that AHPL/AYCAP/0114 capsule possesses aphrodisiac activity and can be used in erectile dysfunction and loss of libido. Abbreviations used: (MF): Mount frequency; (ML): Mount latency; (IF): Intromission frequency; (IL): Intromission latency; (EL): Ejaculation latency; (EF): Ejaculation frequency; (ED): Erectile dysfunction; CPCSEA: Committee for the Purpose of Control And Supervision of Experiments on Animals.

Aphrodisiac Activity of an Aqueous Extract of Wood Ear Mushroom, Auricularia polytricha (Heterobasidiomycetes), in Male Rats.

Auricularia polytricha is a popular mushroom found all over the world. In this study we considered the effect of an aqueous extract of A. polytricha (AEAP) on restoring sexual performance parameters to normal, evaluated by considering observations of sexual behavior. At 0, 6, 12, 18, and 24 days, the following parameters of sexual performance were identified before and throughout the observations: mount latency, intromission latency, ejaculation latency, mounting frequency, intromission frequency, ejaculation frequency, and postejaculatory interval. Treatment of rats under stress with AEAP showed promising effects on overcoming stress-induced sexual dysfunction, on sexual performance, and on accessory sexual organs and body weight. Mounting latency, intromission latency, ejaculation latency, and postejaculatory interval parameters were significantly decreased by AEAP, whereas mounting frequency, intromission frequency, and ejaculation frequency were significantly increased by AEAP. These properties were identified in sexually dynamic and indolent male rats. We conclude that AEAP has a potent aphrodisiac activity.

Changes in Male Rat Sexual Behavior and Brain Activity Revealed by Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Response to Chronic Mild Stress

BackgroundNon-organic erectile dysfunction (noED) at functional imaging has been related to abnormal brain activity and requires animal models for further research on the associated molecular mechanisms. AimTo develop a noED animal model based on chronic mild stress and investigate brain activity changes. MethodsWe used 6 weeks of chronic mild stress to induce depression. The sucrose consumption test was used to assess the hedonic state. The apomorphine test and sexual behavior test were used to select male rats with ED. Rats with depression and ED were considered to have noED. Blood oxygen level-dependent–based resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies were conducted on these rats, and the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations and functional connectivity were analyzed to determine brain activity changes. OutcomesThe sexual behavior test and resting-state fMRI were used for outcome measures. ResultsThe induction of depression was confirmed by the sucrose consumption test. A low intromission ratio and increased mount and intromission latencies were observed in male rats with depression. No erection was observed in male rats with depression during the apomorphine test. Male rats with depression and ED were considered to have noED. The possible central pathologic mechanism shown by fMRI involved the amygdaloid body, dorsal thalamus, hypothalamus, caudate-putamen, cingulate gyrus, insular cortex, visual cortex, sensory cortex, motor cortex, and cerebellum. Similar findings have been found in humans. Clinical TranslationThe present study provided a novel noED rat model for further research on the central mechanism of noED. Strengths and LimitationsThe present study developed a novel noED rat model and analyzed brain activity changes based at fMRI. The observed brain activity alterations might not extend to humans. ConclusionThe present study developed a novel noED rat model with brain activity alterations related to sexual arousal and erection, which will be helpful for further research involving the central mechanism of noED.Chen G, Yang B, Chen J, et al. Changes in Male Rat Sexual Behavior and Brain Activity Revealed by Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Response to Chronic Mild Stress. J Sex Med 2018;15:136–147.

STUDY ON APHRODISIAC ACTIVITY OF OLEA DIOICA ROXB. BARK, LEAF EXTRACTS, AND ITS PURE COMPOUND USING WISTAR ALBINO RATS

Objectives: We aimed to assess the effects of O. dioica Roxb. leaf and bark extract and its isolated constituent benzeneethanol, 4-hydroxy- on aphrodisiac activity in rats using different standard aphrodisiac parameters.Methods: To determine the aphrodisiac activity several parameters were observed. These include measuring and observing the mount frequency (MF), mount latency (ML), intromission frequency (IF), intromission latency (IL), anogenital sniffing (AS), and genital grooming (GG).Results: The aphrodisiac activity of O. dioica Roxb. leaf and bark extracts and its pure compound were studied on Wistar albino rats at different dosages. The parameters observed during the study were MF, ML, IF, IL, AS, and GG. The results revealed that the crude extracts showed dose-dependent activity in all the concentration, in that, ethanolic leaf extract showed excellent activity compared to ethanolic bark extract and pure compound benzene ethanol 4-hydroxy.Conclusion: Results showed the excellent aphrodisiac activity of O. dioica Roxb. leaf and bark ethanolic extracts. However, the major compound benzeneethanol, 4-hydroxy- was not responsible for the aphrodisiac activity, may be the minor compounds even though in minor concentration in the extract influence the sexual activity in tested animals.

In vitro and in vivo aphrodisiac properties of the seed extract from Allium tuberosum on corpus cavernosum smooth muscle relaxation and sexual behavior parameters in male Wistar rats

BackgroundAllium tuberosum is a well-known spice as well as a herb in traditional Chinese medicine, used for increasing libido and treating erectile dysfunction. However, not many studies have been done to evaluate the sexual enhancing properties of A. tuberosum. The aim of this study was to evaluate the aphrodisiac and vasorelaxant properties of A. tuberosum on corpus cavernosum smooth muscle (CCSM) as well as checking the effect on enhancing male rat sexual behavior, libido, potency as well as its spermatogenic properties.MethodThe seeds were powdered and sequentially extracted with hexane, ethyl acetate and butanol. Male Wistar rats were administered with graded doses of the n-BuOH extracts (ATB) of A. tuberosum (50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) and Viagra was used as the positive control drug. The extract/drug was administered by gastric probe once daily for 45 days and the sexual behavior was analyzed by exposing the male rats to female rats in the estrus period.ResultsATB relaxed corpus cavernosum smooth muscle (68.9%) at a concentration of 200 μg/ml. The results obtained from the animal studies indicated that ATB significantly increased mount frequency (MF), intromission frequency (IF), ejaculation frequency (EF), ejaculation latency (EL) and markedly reduced post ejaculatory interval (PEI), mount latency (ML), and intromission latency (IL). Furthermore, a remarkable increase in the test for potency was observed as witnessed by marked increase in erections, quick flips, long flips and total reflex. In addition, ATB significantly improved the sperm viability and count as well as increased the concentrations of testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and phosphatases in the treated animals.ConclusionThus our results suggest that A. tuberosum could stimulate sexual arousal and enhance sexual execution in male rats, thus providing valuable experimental evidence that A. tuberosum possesses sexual enhancing properties.

Effect of Aqueous Extract of &lt;i&gt;Dendropanax morbifera&lt;/i&gt; Leaf on Sexual Behavior in Male Rats

Sexual function in an important of the quality of life and subjective well-being in humans. Successful treatment of sexual dysfunction may improve not only sexual relationships, but also overall quality of life. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of Dendropanax morbifera (DM) Lev. leaf extracts on sexual behavior and testosterone levels in male rats. Three different doses of DM (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/day) were administered orally for 28 days. On day 28 (final day of the sample treatment period) and day 42 (after 2 weeks of sample withdrawal period following 28 days of sample treatment), serum testosterone levels and sexual behavior of rats were determined, including mount frequency (MF), intromission frequency, mount latency (ML, the time from introduction of the female to the male to the first mount), intromission latency (IL), and post-ejaculatory interval (PEI). ML significantly reduced, whereas MF increased in the DM group. The DM group also had a reduced PEI. The oral administration of DM significantly increased serum testosterone levels compared with those in the control group. The results of this study demonstrate that an aqueous extract of DM represents a useful natural resource for the management of sexual function.

Evaluation of the aphrodisiac potential of a chemically characterized aqueous extract of Tamarindus indica pulp

Ethnopharmacological relevanceTamarindus indica is an ingredient in the traditional aphrodisiac formulations in Africa and India. It is also a widely used food ingredient in other tropical countries. Aim of the studyThe present study was aimed to evaluate the aphrodisiac potential and reproductive safety profile of aqueous extract of Tamarindus indica in male Wistar rats. Materials and methodsThe aqueous extract was prepared by maceration of pulp followed by reduction of volume in rotavapor under heat followed by freeze drying. The prepared extract was characterized for contents of total phenol, flavonoid, and saponin. It was also subjected to phytoconstituent analysis using GCMS. Further, the extract was evaluated for acute toxicity study. The aphrodisiac and reproductive toxicity potential were evaluated in animals after grouping them in four with six animals each namely, normal control, standard (Sildenafil citrate, 4mg/kg p.o.) and extract of Tamarindus indica treated groups at two dose levels, 125 and 250mg/kg p.o. The study was conducted for 54 days with daily once dosing of extract and standard. Equal number of females was grouped without treatment for evaluation of parameters of sexual desire (mount frequency and intromission frequency) and parameters of sexual arousal (mount latency and intromission latency). These parameters were evaluated on day 14, 28, 42 and 54. Animals were sacrificed on day 54, testes were removed and studied for histopathological changes. ResultsThe extract showed 6.6mg gallic acid equivalent/g of total phenol, 2.3mg catechin equivalent/g of flavonoid and 11.6% saponin. Forty chemical constituents were identified by GCMS analysis. In acute toxicity study, the extract was found to be safe till 2000mg/kg p.o. Efficacy study showed significant (p<0.05) improvement in parameters of sexual desire (mount frequency and intromission frequency) and parameters of sexual arousal on all observed days except mount frequency for 125mg/kg on 42nd day and intromission frequency for both doses of tamarind compared to normal control. Improvements in these parameters were comparable to the standard drug. Histopathology study and sperm count suggested an increase in sperm production without any sign of toxicity in testis. Sperm motility significantly (p<0.05) increased in the treatment groups that received extract at 250mg/kg compared to normal control. ConclusionAqueous extract of Tamarindus indica possessed aphrodisiac activity together with spermatogenic potential.

Effect of quercetin on cadmium chloride-induced impairments in sexual behaviour and steroidogenesis in male Wistar rats.

Cadmium chloride (CdCl2 ) has been reported to cause reproductive toxicity in male rats, mainly through oxidative stress. This study examined its effect on sexual behaviour, as one of the mechanisms of reproductive dysfunction, as well as the possible ameliorative effect of quercetin (QE) on same. Thirty male Wistar rats (10weeks old), weighing 270-300g, were used for this study. They were either orally administered 2% DMSO, CdCl2 (5mg/kg b.w.), QE (20mg/kg b.w.) or CdCl2 +QE, once daily for 4weeks, before sexual behavioural studies. The 5th group received CdCl2 for 4weeks and allowed 4-week recovery period, before sexual behavioural test. Rats were sacrificed after sexual behavioural studies. The blood, testis and penis were collected for biochemical assays. Cadmium increased mount, intromission and ejaculatory latencies, but reduced their frequencies, compared to control. Serum nitric oxide increased, while penile cyclic guanosine monophosphate reduced in the CdCl2 -exposed rats, compared to control. CdCl2 increased testicular cholesterol, but reduced 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and 17β-HSD activities, and testosterone concentration. QE better attenuated these negative changes compared to withdrawal of CdCl2 treatment. In conclusion, CdCl2 suppressed steroidogenesis, penile erection and sexual behaviour, with poor reversal following withdrawal, while QE attenuated these effects.

Aphrodisiac potentials of the ethanol extract of Aloe barbadensis Mill. root in male Wistar rats

BackgroundAloe barbadensis (AB) is a short stemmed succulent medicinal herb that is being used by locals in Nigeria to enhance libido. Therefore this study evaluates the aphrodisiac potential and acute toxicological effect of A. barbadensis (AB) root in male Wistar rats.MethodsAphrodisiac potential was determined following the oral administration of graded doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) of ethanol extract of A. barbadensis root. Sildenafil citrate (Viagra) and distilled water served as positive and negative controls respectively. Sexual behavioural parameters (mounting and intromission frequencies, mounting, intromission and ejaculatory latencies) were observed. Serum testosterone and cholesterol concentrations were also progressively monitored on days 1, 7 and 14. The acute toxicological evaluation of the plant were based on any onset behavioural changes and mortality respectively.ResultsThe findings from the sexual behavioural study indicated that the ethanol extract of A. barbadensis significantly increased mounting frequency and intromission frequency but significantly decreased mount and intromission latencies in a dose dependent manner particularly on day 1 and 14. The ethanol extract also prolonged ejaculatory latency. The testosterone and cholesterol concentrations were also increased as the dose increased particularly on day 1 and 7. The lowest dose of 100 mg/kg showed the best aphrodisiac effect. The toxicity studies showed that there were no acute behavioural changes with zero mortality.ConclusionThe increased blood testosterone and cholesterol concentrations by the ethanol extract of A. barbadensis can probably be said to be the possible mechanisms of action for its aphrodisiac property. The plant may also be used to treat hypotestosteronemia following its ability to increase testosterone. These findings therefore give backing to the acclaimed local use of A. barbadensis root as an aphrodisiac in males.

Changes in Sexual Behavior of Orchidectomized Rats under Influence of Allotransplantation of Testicular Interstitial Cell Suspension

Transplantation of hormone-producing cells is an experimental endocrine dysfunction treatment. The present study investigated the effects of orchidectomy (OE) and transplantation of interstitial cell suspension (ICS) on rat sexual behavior. Adult experimental animals were divided into two populations. One of these populations had sexual experience before the experiment and the other did not. Each population was divided into three groups: control group and two orchidectomized groups. One of the orchidectomized groups was treated with ICS, and the other was treated with the vehicle. The changes in the sexual behavior were investigated on the following parameters: mount latency (ML), intromission latency (IL), ejaculation latency (EL), mount frequency (MF), intromission frequency (IF), copulatory efficacy (CE), and IF/EL ratio. The investigation of these changes lasted 4 weeks after ICS transplantation. The parameters of sexual behavior reflected a decrease in sexual function after OE at the beginning of the observation, especially for the animals that did not have a sexual experience. However, it was shown that sexual activity increased in the following 4 weeks. We have indicated that the loss of gonads attenuated the capacity to acquire sexual experience; nonetheless, it did not mean that the animals completely lost this capacity. Transplantation of ICS facilitated the maintenance of male sexual behavior after OE, fractionally enlarged the size of regressed seminal vesicles of the animals, and increased the free testosterone (T) level. These findings suggest the ICS can be considered as a temporal source of androgens, which can facilitate a restoration of sexual activity.