Oestrogenic Activity of the Methanolic Extract of the Stem Bark of Cylicodiscus gabunensis Harms (Fabaceae)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the estrogenic effects of the methanolic extract of the stem bark of Cylicodiscus gabunensis in the female rat. The evaluation focused on the effect of the extract on the oestrous cycle, the evolution of the fresh weight of the uterus and ovaries, the total cholesterol level, and the total protein and oestradiol levels. The doses of extract administered to the female rats were 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg for 28 days. Administration of C. gabunensis extract at 400 mg/kg induced an increase in total protein levels. The administration of the extract at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg gives the same results as the negative control which is distilled water. No significant variation of the C. gabunensis extract on the other parameters studied was observed compared to the negative control. This study shows that C. gabunensis would have anti-estrogenic effects, additional work should be carried out in order to validate the use of this extract in the treatment of female infertility.