Effects of aqueous root bark extract of Citropsis articulata (Swingle & Kellerman) on sexual function in male rats

Abstract

About 80% of the world’s population uses herbal medicine for the treatment of various health conditions. Erectile dysfunction is one of the conditions commonly treated using traditional herbs on large scale. In this study, our goal was to determine the safety and effects of the aqueous root bark extract of Citropsis articulata on sexual function in male Wistar rats. This study aimed to carry out phytochemical analysis of the aqueous root bark extract of C. articulata, conduct acute toxicity test to determine the safety of the aqueous root bark extract from C. articulata, determine the effect of the extract of C. articulata on inducing erection in male rats, and also to evaluate the effect of the extract of C. articulata on testosterone levels in male rats. Extraction was carried out by warm maceration, and phytochemical analysis done, following the methods of Trease and Evans, and acute toxicity studies were conducted following the Lorke’s method. Efficacy was evaluated using non-contact and contact models. Testosterone analysis was performed using the AXSYM Testosterone reagent by Abbott AXSYM system. Results of phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, proteins, free amino acids, arginine and phenolic compounds. The LD50 was estimated at 9486.833 mg/kg body weight. Extract did not induce erection, but had a significant effect on mounting (p-value = 0.013) and a significant effect on testosterone level (p-value = 0.02). Aqueous root bark extract of C. articulata increases mounting frequency and testosterone levels in male rats, is slightly toxic, and contains phytochemicals effective in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Key words: Acute toxicity, erectile dysfunction, Citropsis articulata, testosterone, mounting frequency.