Effect of Methanol Extract of Treculia Africana Seeds on Reproductive Hormones, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone and Oxidative Stress Markers in Female Wistar Rats

Background: Women in search for fertility have turn their way from orthodox medicine to herbal medicine in order to achieve pregnancy. The increasing infertility problem in modern society, which results in an emotional, psychological, cultural, and social burden that depletes couples. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of methanol extract of Treculia africana seeds on the reproductive hormones and oxidative stress markers in female Wistar. Method: Twenty (20) animals weighing between 160g to 180g were randomly selected in 4 groups of 5 animals per group. Administration of extract was done in 21 days and on the 22nd day, the animals were sacrificed and tissues and organs harvested. Statistically, the data obtained from the findings were analyzed using ANOVA and SPSS version 23. The results were expressed in mean and standard error deviation. P<0.05 was said to be significant. Results: There is significant increase in serum follicle stimulating hormone concentration for the medium dose extract(150mg/kg). Luteinizing hormone, estrogen significantly increases in the medium and high doses (150mg/kg and 200mg/kg), and an increase in progesterone at all doses. TSH, prolactin, total protein and final weight of the animals increase significantly. Glutathione (GSH) serum level decrease significantly for the medium dose of extract. There was a dose dependent significant decrease when compared to control for SOD and MDA and may lack antioxidant properties. Conclusion: The extract significantly increasing reproductive hormones and thyroid stimulating hormones and may enhance breast milk production in lactating mother.