Abstract

Wide usage of Waltheria indica plant has been reported but its effects on the reproductive indices of male albino rats have not been evaluated. This study investigates the effects of W. indica leaf extract on the sperm counts, motility, live-dead ratio and sperm morphological abnormality of male albino rats. Thirty six (36) healthy white male albino rats were randomly selected and divided into six groups. Each of the treated groups was administered with different concentrations of aqueous leaf extract for 21 days after which the semen samples were taken for analysis of reproductive parameters. The testicles were also removed for histological study. There was significant decrease (p<0.01) in sperm motility and sperm counts at doses 800, 1600 and 2000 mg/kg. The live-dead ratio was also significantly decreased (p<0.01) at 2000 mg/kg dose. There was also significant increase in total abnormal cell for all the treated groups. The extract induced periportal cellular infiltration and interstitial congestion on the testes of the treated rats.

Key words: Waltheria indica, motility, sperm counts, live-dead ratio, abnormal cell, histology, rats.