Effect of ethanolic extract of Paederia foetida Linn. leaves on sexual behavior and spermatogenesis in male rats

BackgroundPaederia foetida Linn. (P. foetida) is considered to be an aphrodisiac, but its ability to stimulate sexual behavior has not been reported. In the present study, the effects of an ethanolic extract of P. foetida on sexual behavior and testosterone level in male rats was investigated.MethodsEthanolic extract of the leaves (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight) was studied for their effect on body and secondary sexual organ weight, sexual behavior, spermatogenesis and serum testosterone level in male albino rats.ResultsOral administration of the extract in albino rats showed pronounced anabolic and spermatogenic effects in animals in the treated groups. The extract significantly increased both mount and intromission frequency. In addition, it also significantly reduced both mount and intromission latency. These effects were associated with an increase in orientation activity.ConclusionThe extract had a dose-dependent influence on serum testosterone level. The results support the use of P. foetida as an aphrodisiac in traditional medicine.