Abstract
Objectives
To justify the effects of Mentha piperita labiatae and Mentha spicata labiatae herbal teas on plasma total testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating
hormone levels and testicular histologic features. We performed this study because
of major complaints in our area from men about the adverse effects of these herbs
on male reproductive function.
Methods
The experimental study included 48 male Wistar albino rats (body weight 200 to 250
g). The rats were randomized into four groups of 12 rats each. The control group was
given commercial drinking water, and the experimental groups were given 20 g/L M. piperita tea, 20 g/L M. spicata tea, or 40 g/L M. spicata tea.
Results
The follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels had increased and
total testosterone levels had decreased in the experimental groups compared with the
control group; the differences were statistically significant. Also, the Johnsen testicular
biopsy scores were significantly different statistically between the experimental
groups and the control group. Although the mean seminiferous tubular diameter of the
experimental groups was relatively greater than in the control group, the difference
was not statistically significant. The only effects of M. piperita on testicular tissue was segmental maturation arrest in the seminiferous tubules;
however, the effects of M. spicata extended from maturation arrest to diffuse germ cell aplasia in relation to the dose.
Conclusions
Despite the beneficial effects of M. piperita and M. spicata in digestion, we should also be aware of the toxic effects when the herbs are not
used in the recommended fashion or at the recommended dose.
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
March 30,
2004
Received:
December 22,
2003
Identification
Copyright
© 2004 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
