Ecological and pharmacological studies of an aphrodisiac plant corchorus depressus [Linn.]

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

Free serum testosterone level in male rats treated with tribulus alatus extracts

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.