Effects of aqueous extract from Cyathula prostrata (Linn.) Blume (Amaranthaceae) on puberty onset and some reproductive parameters in immature female Wistar rats.

Purpose: Cyathula prostrata (C. prostrata) a medicinal plant from tropical Africa, is traditionally used in Western Cameroon to treat female infertility. This study investigated the hormone-like effects of the aqueous extract of C. prostrata (AECp) leaves and stems on the onset of puberty and various reproductive parameters in immature female Wistar rats.

Methods: Five groups of immature female rats received daily oral doses of AECp for 20 consecutive days. Post-treatment body, ovarian, and uterine weights were recorded, along with uterine and ovarian protein levels, ovarian cholesterol levels, and blood hormone concentrations (FSH, LH, estradiol, and progesterone).

Results: AECp increased the growth rate in all treated animals. It reduced the age at vaginal opening by 2 to 6 days compared to controls. Secondary and tertiary follicles increased by 32.7% and 37.7%, respectively, in AECp-treated rats (96 mg/kg and 64 mg/kg). AECp significantly reduced uterine and ovarian protein levels by 21.3% and 27.8% at 64 mg/kg dosage. Regardless of dose, AECp lowered ovarian cholesterol and serum FSH levels (p < 0.001). Serum progesterone, estradiol, and LH levels increased significantly at 64 mg/kg compared to controls.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates AECp's positive effects on the onset of puberty and ovarian folliculogenesis in immature female rats.