Abstract
This study investigated the efficacy of Newbouldia laevis and Commelina benghalensis as female pro-fertility plants. The plants were cleaned, dried to a constant weight, pulverized and macerated for 72 hours in 70% ethanol. Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity test (Lorke's method; for up to 5000mg/kg per extract) were carried out. Two sets of 48 female rats (200-220g) were given 50mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 500mg/kg of each of the extracts orally. The control and the reference groups received 0.5 ml distilled water and 10mg/kg of Clomiphene citrate respectively. Blood samples were collected for evaluation: hormonal, from the first set, after eight days of administration; and, biochemical and toxicological, from the second set after 28 days of administration. The heart, liver, kidneys, ovaries, fallopian tubes and the uterus were harvested and examined for defects. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, carbohydrates, cardenolides and saponins for N. laevis and alkaloids, tannins, carbohydrates, cardenolides and saponins for C. benghalensis. Significant increase of FSH levels on day 8 was at 500mg/kg for N.laevis and at200mg/kg;500mg/kg for C. benghalensis. At 50mg/kg, N .laevis, significantly reduced prolactin levels. Biochemical studies recorded a significant decrease in AST and ALT and a significant increase in Sodium level with no effect on the other biochemical parameters. The results showed that plants had no significant toxic effects on the vital organs in doses used. This study also suggests that ethanol extracts of the leaves of N. laevis and C .benghalensis have hepato -protective effects and may be safe as pro-fertility plants.
Keywords : Newbouldia laevis, Commelina benghalensis , Clomiphene citrate Follicle Stimulating hormone, Aspartate Transaminase, Alanine Transaminase,
