Abstract

D. J Allen and E. H Nyaki

The effect of the extract of Cucumis metuliferus fruit on some male reproductive parameters was investigated in albino rats. The LD50 of the extract was above 5000 mg/kg body weight when administered orally. Histological studies showed that there was no remarkable change in the testes histology compare to the control. The effects on sperm cells showed a statistically significant (P<0.05) increase in total sperm count with an insignificant (P>0.05) increase in viability count in rats treated with 500 mg/kg dose point. On the other hand, 1000 mg/kg dose point produced significant (P<0.05) decrease in total sperm count and viability count compare to control. This result suggests that C. metuliferus fruit extracts could be beneficial in increasing sperm/semen integrity.