Physiologic Investigation of frequent Administration of Aqueous Extract of Raphia Hookeri Fruit Pulp on Selected Reproductive Hormones in Female Wistar Rats

Abstract

This research is aimed at evaluating the effect of frequent consumption of aqueous extract of raphia hookeri fruit pulp on selected reproductive hormones in female Wistar rats. A total of 32 apparently healthy rats weighing 130g to 180g grouped into 4, group1 as control fed with distilled water and feed, group 2 given 500mg/kg, group3 given 1000mg/kg, group 4 given 2000mg/kg body weight of the extract for 28days. Animals sacrificed and blood samples taken for laboratory analysis,results analyzed using statistical tool SPSS version 21.0, one-way ANOVA,P<0.05 considered significant, values expressed as mean, standard error of mean (SEM). Outcome displayed significant (P>0.05) reduction in Estrogenlevels in groups 2 (17.65±1.25) and 3 (23.00±0.00), but group 4 (43.15±3.85) showed a significant increase when compared to control (37.00±4.00). Follicle Stimulating Hormonelevels in all treated groups did not indicate significant (P>0.05) changes when compared to the control group (2.10±0.30), however, group 4 (3.45±1.15) showed a significant increase when compared to groups 2 (0.65±0.25) and 3 (1.00±0.10). No significant (P>0.05) variations in luteinizing hormone levels when treated groups compared to the control group (1.40±0.30), only group 4 (2.25±0.15) indicated significant (P<0.05) increase when compared to groups 2 (0.55±0.45) and 3 (1.35±0.15). Hence, it can be inferred that the frequent consumption of aqueous extract from Raphia Hookeri fruit pulp has the potential to alleviate female reproductive disorders associated with hormonal imbalances or dysfunctions