The Effect of Supplementation with Some Essential Oils on the Mobility and the Vitality of Human Sperm

Abstract

The objective of this work is to study the improvement effect of some essential oils of sage (Salvia officinalis), oregano (Origanum vulgare), and eucalyptus (eucalyptus globulus) on the physiological parameters characterizing the quality of human sperm (mobility and vitality). We find natural biomolecules to improve sperm quality to increase the chances of success of very low in vitro fertilization (IVF) that stagnate around 20%. Sperm samples were mixed with different concentrations of essential oils. The effect of these essential oils on the motility and vitality of spermatozoa has been analyzed. The mobility was determined using a Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA). In the other side, the evaluation of sperm vitality was performed by staining eosin 2% and the microscopic examination is carried out via optical microscope. A drop of sperm will be mixed with a drop of eosin solution 2%, spread between the slip and coverslip, then allowed to air dry, and examined under a microscope. A significant improvement in the mobility and vitality of human spermatozoa has been noted with oregano. Eucalyptus after 10 min of exposure also significantly improves the mobility and vitality of the spermatozoa. Sage does not improve mobility for these incubation times but significantly improves vitality.

Effect of Origanum vulgare Essential Oil Supplementation on the Advanced Parameters of Mobility and on the Integrity of Human Sperm DNA

“…Our previous work had shown that the in vitro supplementation of the essential oil of oregano during 5 and 10 min of incubation at 37°C under 5% of CO 2 significantly improved the mobility and the vitality of the spermatozoa [3].…”

“…Informed consent was obtained from all patients included before using their sperm in this study. Then, samples were collected after 3 to 4 days of abstinence in sterile and labelled containers [3]. For liquefaction, the samples were stored at 37°C under 5% CO 2 until use.…”

“…We checked at a time interval of 10 min until the liquefaction was done. The microscopic analysis was performed in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) standards and guidelines [3].…”

“…Vitality Analysis. The assessment of sperm viability was performed with 2% eosin staining [3]. To do this, semen samples were mixed with an equal volume of eosin solution.…”

“…Immediately after drying, each slide was examined under an optical microscope. The test is performed immediately after contact between the sperm cells and different concentrations of EO (t = 0 min), at exposure times ranging from 5 to 10 min, and the preparation was incubated at 37°C under 5% CO 2 [3].…”