Modulatory effects of Ficus exasperata (Vahl) aqueous leaf extract against alcohol-induced testicular testosterone and total thiol pool perturbations in Wistar rats

An array of disorders caused by excessive alcohol consumption could be attributed to its reactive species (RS) generation power. Studies have reported that polar solvent extract of Ficus exasperata leaves possessed the ability to scavenge radicals, thereby protecting cells against the effects of RS. Ficus exasperata aqueous leaf extract modulations on total thiols, testosterone, and sperm characterisation levels in alcohol-induced reproductive perturbed male rats were studied. Twelve groups (A–L) of rats were used. Group A served as a control (0% alcohol); groups B and C received 40% alcohol (3.2 g·kg −1 body weight) for 4 and 6 weeks, respectively. Groups D, E, and F received only extract-graded doses (125, 250, and 500 mg/kg body weight, respectively) for 2 weeks. After 4 weeks of 40% alcohol administration, groups G, H, and I were treated with the extract-graded doses, while groups J, K, and L were concurrently given the extract-graded doses with alcohol for another 2 weeks. Compared with groups B and C, groups G, H, J, and K serum reduced glutathione increased by 36%, 43%, 82%, and 87%, respectively. In addition, the extracts restored total thiols, testosterone, sperm cell motility, and morphology levels by significantly increasing levels of total thiols, testosterone, and sperm cell motility besides decreasing abnormal sperm cells when compared with groups B and C. Ficus exasperata leaf could be employed in managing reproductive disorders associated with excessive alcohol consumption.