Effects of Cucumis metuliferus E Mey. Ex Naud (Cucurbitaceae) Fruit Extract on some Male Reporoductive Parameters in Adult Rats

Abstract

The effect of the extract of Cucumis metuliferus fruit on some male reproductive parameters was investigated in albino rats. The LD50 of the extract was above 5000 mg/kg body weight when administered orally. Histological studies showed that there was no remarkable change in the testes histology compare to the control. The effects on sperm cells showed a statistically significant (P<0.05) increase in total sperm count with an insignificant (P>0.05) increase in viability count in rats treated with 500 mg/kg dose point. On the other hand, 1000 mg/kg dose point produced significant (P<0.05) decrease in total sperm count and viability count compare to control. This result suggests that C. metuliferus fruit extracts could be beneficial in increasing sperm/semen integrity.