Effect of Persian hogweed (Heracleum persicum) on the morphological changes in mice testes and the level of hormone testosterone

Golpar plant contains chemicals including protein, fibers, reduction and non-reduction sugars, three types of coumarin, organic compounds of camphor family, Fitoestrols and 1, 2 Dimetoksil 4 methyl benzene. These compounds encompass anti-mitotic, estrogenic, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity and anti-mutation properties. In this study, the effect of Golpar extract on testicular tissue changes and the level of testosterone in mice were studied. The study was experimental. Thirty two male Wistar rats weighing approximately 280 ± 10 g were studied. The rats were randomly divided into five groups of eight: control group (received distilled water) and treated experimental groups that received Golpar alcoholic extract in amounts 0.05, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 g/kg, respectively. All groups at the end of the fourteenth day were bled and blood samples were collected to measure testosterone by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Results were evaluated with SPSS and Tukey test. Also the testicles were removed and after weighing, tissue studies were done. Serum testosterone levels in 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 g/kg treated groups significantly decreased as compared to the control group. Sperm density in the tubules and the mean body and testes weight in 0.2 and 0.4 g/kg treated groups decreased significantly compared to the control group. According to the results of this study it can be concluded that consumption of Golpar alcoholic extract probably reduced plasma testosterone, body weight, testis weight and sperm density and thus can be used to treat sexual dysfunction in males.