Antifertility effect of Areca catechu in male albino rats

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antifertility activity of Areca catechu in male albino rats. Alcoholic extract of Areca catechu was studied for antifertility activity at doses 300 and 600 mg/kg body weight. Fertility was assessed with mating test. Body weight and weight of the reproductive organs (testis and epididymis) were observed. Biochemical evaluation (total protein content and cholesterol level) and histopathological study (cellular dynamics) were performed on testes. There was a 50% reduction in fertility at 300 and 100% reduction at 600 mg doses. There was no significant change in the body weight and weight of the reproductive organs (testis and epididymis). Cholesterol in the testis was significantly (p<0.01) increased and total protein content was significantly (p< 0.001) decreased at both doses. Histology of the testis showed reduction in the number of secondary spermatocytes and spermatids. There was a reduction in the number of Leydig cells, increase in the diameter of seminiferous tubules with necrotic products and fluid collections at higher dose. Alcoholic extract of Areca catechu showed antifertility activity at 300 and 600mg/kg body weight doses.