Protective Effect of Tiger Nut (Cyperus Esculentus) Against Monosodium Glutamate-Induced Reproductive Dysfunction in Male Wistar Rats

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a widespread flavour enhancer linked to health risks, including male reproductive dysfunction. This study investigated tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) as a potential protective agent against MSG-induced reproductive issues in male Wistar rats. Forty adult rats were divided into four groups: control, MSG-only (2 mg/g), tiger nut-only (500 mg/kg), and MSG+tiger nut combination (2 mg/g MSG + 500 mg/kg tiger nut). Treatments were administered orally for 28 days, with analyses conducted at days 14 and 28. Results showed significant variations in sperm parameters. At 14 days, the tiger nut group showed highest sperm motility (88.60±4.04%) and count (100.60±3.21×106/mL), while MSG reduced sperm viability (70.00±4.69%). By 28 days, MSG significantly decreased sperm motility (41.80±4.92%) and viability (54.80±6.76%). MSG increased sperm abnormalities at 14 days (13.60±2.51%) but normalized by 28 days. The MSG+tiger nut combination eliminated certain sperm abnormalities like coiled tail and tail-without-head. Gonadometric parameters remained stable throughout the study, indicating tiger nut's ability to maintain testicular architecture despite MSG exposure. Initial body weight increases in the MSG group normalized by weeks 3-4. The study concludes that tiger nut juice significantly protects against MSG-induced low sperm quality in male Wistar rats, suggesting its potential as a protective supplement for populations with unavoidable MSG exposure. Future research should explore long-term effects and cellular mechanisms.