Evaluation of Antifertility Effect and Recovery of the Seed Oil Constituents of Iranian Species of Melia Azadrach L. in Male Rats

ObjectiveTo evaluate the fertility effects of seed extract of Melia azadarach L. treatment effects on fertility indices in male Wistar rats.MethodsThe seed oil extract had been prepared according to conventional methods. The rats were randomly divided into three study groups. Groups A and B received graded doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg body weight of the extract oil, respectively on daily basis for 60 d. Animals in control group received 1 ml of maize oil. At the end of 60 d and 3 months treatment period, 6 animals per group were randomly selected and fertility was evaluated with mating test. GSI (gonadosomatic index) sperm motility, sperm viability, ESR (epididymal sperm reserves), DSP (daily sperm production) and testosterone concentration were also assessed.ResultsIn the first stage, a significant reduction in fertility indices especially in higher dose was observed compared with the control. During the next stage, the significant increase in fertility indices are the indication of reasonable recovery and reversibility of extract activity.ConclusionThe seed oil of Melia azadarach L. has antifertility activity, but its effects is reversible.