ABSTRACT
Background: The effect of aqueous stem bark extract of Anogeissus leiocarpus (AEAL) on the reproductive cycle of adult female Wistar rat and the serum levels of ovarian hormones (estradiol and progestin) was studied. Methods: Twenty-four (24) adult female Wistar rats were used. Rats were divided into groups (I - IV; n=6). Group I was control and received distilled water; groups II, III and IV received AEAL (200mg/kg, 400mg/kg, and 600mg/kg, oral, respectively) for the period of six (6) weeks. The estrous cycle changes were determined by daily observation of vaginal smear, while serum levels of estradiol and progestin was compared after the extract administration-using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay kits. Results: Result showed significant (p< 0.05) increase in the levels of serum progesterone and estradiol in groups II and III treatment; 19% higher when compared to the control. Treatment with AEAL at doses 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg prolonged di-estrus and estrus phases of the rats’ estrous cycle. The increase in the duration of the two phases (diestrus and estrus) was dose dependent, significant (p<0.05) when compared to the control. Conclusion: AEAL has effect on the reproductive cycle and serum levels of ovarian hormones of Wistar rats, hence of potential use in fertility related studies.