Impact of Aloe buettneri Extract on Reproductive Physiology and Fertility in Female Rats - Abstract
Background: Aloe buettneri, a member of the Liliaceae family, thrives in warm regions worldwide and is renowned for its dermatological, cosmetic, and
digestive benefits. In western Cameroon, it is traditionally used in combination with other plants to address female infertility and dysmenorrhea. This study
investigates the effects of the aqueous extract of Aloe buettneri (AEAb) on reproductive physiology and fertility in female rats.
Methods: Immature female rats (aged 21-22 days), were administered AEAb orally at various dosages over a period of 20 consecutive days. Post
treatment, the weights of various organs and biochemical parameters were assessed. Additionally, gestation follow-up was conducted and fertility parameters
were recorded.
Results: AEAb did not significantly impact ovarian weight, cholesterol levels, protein levels, or haemorrhagic points. However, at a dosage of 50 mg/
kg, AEAb increased the relative uterine weight (p < 0.05) as well as the relative weights of the liver, heart, and kidneys. Biochemical parameters remained
largely unaffected. There were non-significant increases in implantation sites, corpora lutea, and live births, alongside improvements in nidation, gestation, and
fertility rates. Conversely, at a dosage of 12.5 mg/kg, stillborn pups increased by 75% (p < 0.05). Resorption sites, pre- and post-implantation losses were
not significantly affected, along with the resorption index, anti-implantation, and antifertility activities.
Conclusion: AEAb has minimal effects on fertility and ovarian folliculogenesis, and it displays mild fetotoxicity at the lowest dosage.