ABSTRACT
Introduction: Testis is an important male reproductive and endocrine organ whose structure and function are altered in diabetes complicated disorders. Aim: This study evaluated the protective effect of Moringa oleifera (MO) and Ocimum gratissimum (OG) on diabetic rat testes. Methodology: Thirty six rats, weighing between 120-180g, were divided into six groups of 6 rats each. Groups 1 and 2 representing Normal (NC) and Diabetic Control (DC) received 0.5ml of dimethylsulphoxide. Group 3 received 5IU/kg b.w insulin; groups 4, 5 and 6 received 500mg/kg b.w of MO, 500mg/kg b.w of OG and 250mg/kg b.w of each extract respectively. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and histology of the testes were analysed after 28 days treatment. Results: MO, OG and the combination extract normalized the levels of FBG. Only the Moringa extract normalized the levels of testosterone, LH and FSH compared with DC. The OG extract had no effect on the level of the three sex hormones but provided a potentiating effect on the FSH level in the MO + OG group. The results were confirmed by histological studies which showed damage on the testes for the DC and OG and reversal of damage to the testes in MO and MO + OG groups. Conclusion: The combined extracts more than Moringa extract alone, had ameliorative effects on testicular architecture and spermatogenesis in diabetes and provide a cheap alternative to treating diabetes associated testicular damage and sexual dysfunction.