Evaluation of Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck seeds as a potential antispermatogenic agent

BACKGROUND: Medicinal plants have been used since ancient times for the management of various diseases, and the Ayurvedic system of medicine emphasizes the use of phytomedicines. The present study was carried out to evaluate the antispermatogenic efficacy of Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck seed extract on male albino rats and its potential as a male contraceptive agent. METHODS: This study was carried out at Ranchi University Department of Zoology. The seeds of C. limon were dried and subjected to ethanolic extraction. A total of 60 male albino rats were taken for trial, and the seed extract was administered orally for a scheduled period. RESULTS: Administration of C. limon seed extract led to a decrease in the sperm quality compared with the control group. Treated rats showed a significant reduction in sperm motility, count, and viability, accompanied by a significant increase in sperm abnormalities, with pronounced effects observed at the high dose. CONCLUSION: The results indicate that C. limon seed extract exhibits antispermatogenic potential in male albino rats. Further detailed studies are needed to confirm the antispermatogenic activity before clinical evaluation.