Telfairia Occidentalis, a Prophylactic Medicine for Alcohol's Damaging Effect on the Testis

Background:  Concerns have been expressed about rising cases of male infertility. Studies have shown that alcohol impairs sexual performance and desire in men. It also affects sperm count lowering it and contributing to fertility problems. Aim:  This study investigated the role of  Telfairia occidentals  in the protection of the testis against alcohol induced damage. Material and Methods:  30 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups of 6 each. They were administered distilled water, 30% v/v of ethanol at 2g/kg body weight, 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg of Telfairia occidentalis , for 8 weeks after which their blood samples were collected for hormonal assay. The testis and cauda epididymis were also excised for histology and semen analysis. Results:  Alcohol depleted the germinal epithelium of the testis but animals that received  Telfairia occidentalis showed a better germinal epithelial lining and a significant increase in semen parameters and hormone levels. Conclusion: Telfairia occidentalis  demonstrated a prophylactic effect on alcohol induced testicular damage and has improved semen quality. In addition, it also improved serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels.