Histological and biochemical changes in the uteri; <i>Centella asiatica</i> as an antifertility agent

This research investigated the adverse effect of Centella asiatica on the female reproductive system, particularly the uterus. The use of alternative medicine has gained more attention in recent years. Plants such as Centella are reported to possess several medicinal benefits, especially in nervous disorders. Predominantly known as “Gotu kola", Centella asiatica is found in the tropic and subtropical regions of the world. The study was experimented in forty (40) Wistar rats maintained under standard conditions. Centella asiatica was obtained from a local farm and extracted using ethanol maceration. Doses of the extract were scientifically calculated from the LD50 and four (4) experimental groups were determined with n=10. The control was group A, while treated groups B, C, and D received 250mg, 500mg, and 1000mg/kg body weight of the extract respectively for 28 days. Half of the animals were mated to ascertain their fertility output at the end of the administration. The harvested uterus went through routine tissue processing after fixation. Some of the tissues were used for biochemical analysis of oxidative stress Formalin-fixed tissues were stained using Haematoxylin and Eosin staining techniques. Data obtained was tested for significant differences between the control and treated groups. Results were statistically significant at p < 0.05. Oxidative stress parameters showed a decreased SOD and GSH with increased MDA. The pregnancy success rate of mated animals decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Histologically, there was a reduction in the number of uterine glands including desquamation of uterine epithelium in all treated groups.