Exploring the Protective Effects of Garlic Essential Oil Against Lead Nitrate-induced Reproductive Toxicity in Swiss Albino Mice

Background: Lead (Pb) is a well-known environmental toxin that adversely affects male reproductive health. Chronic lead exposure can impair testicular function, sperm quality, and hormonal balance, necessitates the exploration of potential protective agents. Aim: This study investigates the protective effects of Garlic Bulb Essential Oil (GBEO) against lead nitrate-induced reproductive toxicity in Swiss albino male mice. Methods: Male Swiss albino mice were orally administered lead nitrate at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight, dissolved in distilled water. Two doses of GBEO - 50 mg/kg (low) and 80 mg/kg (high) - were administered orally with olive oil as a carrier, alongside a standard drug, silymarin, was taken for comparison. The study evaluated reproductive organ weights, sperm parameters, testosterone levels, and histological changes in testicular tissue. Results: Lead nitrate exposure significantly reduced the weight of the testes and epididymis, decreased sperm count and motility, altered testosterone levels, increased sperm abnormalities, and disrupted testicular structure. GBEO supplementation reversed these effects in a dose-dependent manner. Both low and high doses of GBEO improved reproductive organ weights, sperm parameters, and testosterone levels. Histological analysis revealed structural recovery, with the high dose nearly restoring normal testicular architecture. Conclusion: GBEO demonstrates potential as a protective agent against lead-induced male reproductive toxicity. Future studies should focus on optimizing GBEO dosage for therapeutic applications. Major Findings: GBEO effectively mitigated lead nitrate-induced reproductive toxicity in Swiss albino male mice in a dose-dependent manner. It improved reproductive organ weights, sperm quality, and testosterone levels while restoring testicular structure, with the higher dose showing near-complete normalization. These findings highlight GBEO’s potential as a protective agent against lead-induced male reproductive dysfunction.