In vivo analysis of puerarin from Pueraria tuberosa as a promising galactagogue

Breastfeeding is crucial for maternal and infant health, yet global rates vary, with India having the highest at 43.2% and the lowest at 35.8%.To evaluate the galactagogue properties of <i>Pueraria tuberosa</i> in a female rat model, assess its safety through acute toxicity studies and examine its impact on hormone regulation. Secondary objectives included analyzing its effect on serum prolactin levels and conducting molecular docking and GC-MS analyses. Ethical approval was obtained (Letter No. Dean/2019/IEAC/1614). Charles Foster rats were housed under standard conditions and divided into four groups: vehicle, <i>Pueraria tuberosa</i> extracts, 15 mg/kg/day of Puerarin in DMSO and saline and from day three today fifteen of parturition, 2.7 mg/kg of domperidone. Weekly body weights and milk yield were recorded. Serum prolactin levels were measured using the Rat Prolactin ELISA Kit. GC-MS analysis identified <i>Pueraria tuberosa</i> extract constituents. Imaging with the Vevo LAZR System evaluated breast areas and molecular docking studies targeted the 5-HT2AR and D2 receptors. Significant differences in milk yield were observed between the 3rd and 14th days across treatment groups, with Puerarin and domperidone significantly increasing serum prolactin levels. Imaging indicated increased breast blood flow in Puerarin-treated rats, suggesting enhanced lactation. Molecular docking showed high affinity of Puerarin for D2 and 5HT2A receptors, indicating potential hormonal regulation mechanisms. This research provides a comprehensive preclinical evaluation of Puerarin's efficacy and safety as a galactagogue, addressing gaps in understanding herbal lactation aids and laying the foundation for future clinical trials and comparisons with established galactagogues.