Effects of Aqueous Extract of Allium sativum (Garlic) on Semen Parameters in Wistar Rats. Internet Journal of Urology, 7(2):32.

Abstract

Garlic has been in use worldwide since ages, especially as food and for its health benefits. However, concern has been raised on its untoward effects on male reproductive functions. The present study examined the effects of aqueous garlic extract on some semen parameters and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase in Wistar rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were grouped into 3, and aqueous extract of garlic was administered orally at different doses (Group B: 500 mg/kg/d; Group C: 1000 mg/kg/d) to the 2 treated groups, and distilled water given to the control group (Group A), for 28 days. Sperm concentration, motility and morphology were studied, and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was measured. The results of the semen analysis revealed reduction in all the parameters, which was dose-dependent. The percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa was significantly reduced, as well as sperm concentration, compared with findings in the control animals. Garlic also caused a significant reduction in SOD activity in the blood, and this was dose-dependent, as the least activity was recorded among the high dose group. As people desire to enjoy the maximum beneficial health effects of garlic, its potential to adversely affect the reproductive functions, especially at higher doses, should be borne in mind.