Effect of Cannabis Sativa on Spermatogenesis of Male Albino Rats

Abstract-Herbaceous plants have been used as food and medicine since time unknown. Excess of everything is harmful. Many plants may also be harmful if taken for long time and may impair function of reproductive organs i.e. testis and ovary. Cannabis sativa Linn. (Hemp plant), commonly known as "Bhang" or "Marijuana", now cultivated all over India, found wild in Himalayan region. Its preparations mainly 'cannabinoids' used as narcotic and psychotropic (medicinal) drugs. In the present communication, the effect of C. sativa (leaf powder) on spermatogenesis is reported. The leaf powder as aqueous suspension at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/day were fed to three groups (dose wise) with a control group (vehicle treated) of male albino rats for 60 days. On day 61st, all the rats were sacrificed. The reproductive organs were taken out from body and processed for histological examination. Both initial and final body weight were recorded. The weight of organs were also taken before autopsy. The weight of reproductive organs were significantly reduced at higher doses. The spermatogenesis was arrested in testes. The seminiferous tubules were disfigured and reduced in size. Their lumen filled with cellular debris. The Leydig's cells were atrophied. The epididymes and vasa deferentia were devoid of spermatozoa. It is concluded that Cannabis sativa is harmful to male reproductive status of animal and human beings.