ABSTRACT
The aphrodisiac potential of Corchorus depressus and its various ecological and phytochemical parameters were evaluated in the desert environment. The phyto-sociological studies conducted at five sites revealed higher RIV values of this plant during summer period at all sites. Their biomass allocation is largely affected [P<0.01] by both spatial and temporal factors. In vitro germination studies revealed hard seed coat dormancy, duration of acid scarification follows parabolic relation R[2]=0.96] prolonged presoaking [60 h] in water resulted at 50% germination. The variation in different primary metabolites [protein, soluble sugar] secondary metabolites [steroidal sapogenin, phenol and alkaloid] and microelement [Zn and Fe] contributed [P<0.01] by sites, seasons, and plant parts and their different interactions as well. Concentration of different edaphic factors [moisture, pH, EC, organic C, total N, and available P] in Indian arid zone also influenced by factors like site, season and sampling positions [P<0.01]. The bioassay studies with mice indicated that this plant possesses strong androgenic compound and weak estrogenic compound. Summer season harvest is recommended
Subject(s)
Male , Animals, Laboratory , Aphrodisiacs/pharmacology , Ecology , Biomass , Germination , Sapogenins , Proteins , Phenols , Alkaloids , Carbohydrates , Zinc , Iron , Soil , SpermatozoaABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of Tribulus alatus extracts on free serum testosterone in male rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Free serum testosterone level was measured in male rats treated with alcoholic extracts of the aerial part without fruits, fruits of Tribulus alatus and their fractions. RESULTS: All tested extracts showed significant increase in the level of free serum testosterone when compared to that of corresponding control, p < 0.05. Statistical comparison of all groups revealed that the maximum level was found in groups treated with chloroformic and ethanolic fractions of fruits extract. CONCLUSION: Tribulus alatus extract appears to possess aphrodisiac activity due to its androgen increasing property.