Ethanolic Root Extract of Urtica dioica Exhibits Pro-fertility and Antioxidant Activities in Female Albino Rats

Aims: To determine the effect of ethanolic extract of Urtica dioica roots on reproductive hormones and antioxidant enzymes in female Wistar rats.

Study Design: Experimental Research.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Lagos State University, Lagos Nigeria between November 2019 and February 2020.

Methodology: A total of 40 rats used, were divided into eight groups of 5 rats. The study was carried out for a period of 21 days, the rats were induced with levonorgestrel for 7 days after which Urtica dioica extract was administered for 14 days and were compared against vehicle, levonorgestrel and extract controls. Hormonal level estimation (Progesterone, estradiol, prolactin and testosterone) and in-vivo antioxidant enzyme activity (catalase and alkaline phosphatase activity) were estimated using standard procedures.

Results: The administration of the extract showed no statistically significant difference in estradiol levels across all groups. Progesterone levels decreased significantly (p<0.05) compared to the controls while prolactin and testosterone levels also decreased, although not significant. The extract increased catalase and alkaline phosphatase activities significantly in IHD group compared to the control.

Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of Urtica dioica roots exhibits pro-fertility and antioxidant activities.