The effect of Capparis decidua(Forssk.)Edgew aqueous extract on the Wistar rat testes was investigated with a view to evaluating the pharmacological basis for the use of Capparis decidua hydroalcoholic extract as an aphrodisiac. Wistar rats were divided in the following experimental groups- control group (1 mL kg-1), sildenafil citrate treated (5 mg kg-1), C. decidua (100 mg kg-1), C. decidua (200 mg kg-1), per se group (only C. decidua 200 mg kg-1). The hydroalcoholic extract of root, stem & leaves of C. decidua was studied for their effect on the body and secondary sexual organ weight, spermatogenesis, and serum testosterone level male rats. The animals were allowed free access to drinking solution during the 28 days period of exposure. At the end of the experimental period, rats were sacrificed, testis, epididymis, seminal vesicles and prostate glands were excised and weighed, and serum testosterone level was recorded. The testesunderwent histological examination. Oral administration of the extract in Wistar rats showed significant dose-dependent influence on serum testosterone level (P
Key words: Capparis decidua, aphrodisiac, serum testosterone level, body weight, secondary sexual organ weight.
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