Blood Profile and Spermiogram of Male Albino Rats (Wistar Strain) Treated with Euphobia hirta Ethanol Extract

Euphorbia hirta, a widely distributed medicinal plant, has been used in folk medicine for various purposes. This study investigated the effects of Euphorbia hirta ethanol extract on haematology, serum biochemistry, hormonal and spermiogram parameters in male Wistar rats. Forty-eight rats were divided into four groups and treated with 0, 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg of extract for 66 days. Haematological parameters, serum biochemical assays, hormonal analysis, and spermiogram evaluation were conducted using standard laboratory methods. The results showed that the extract did not significantly alter haemtological parameters, indicating its safety on the hematopoietic system. Serum biochemical assays revealed significant reductions in alkaline phosphatase, alanine transferase, and aspartate transaminase levels. Hormonal analysis showed no significant changes in testosterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone levels, indicating no disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Spermiogram evaluation revealed significant changes in semen pH and sperm viability, with the lower dose (50mg/kg) showing a more pronounced effect on sperm viability. However, the higher dose (150mg/kg) significantly increased the number of twisted tail and total abnormal spermatozoa. This study suggests that Euphorbia hirta ethanol extract may have potential benefits on semen quality, but caution should be exercised when using high doses due to potential adverse effects on sperm morphology.