influence of trigonella foenum graecum on prolactin release in female albino rats during different phases of reproductive life

ABSTRACT

The effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum [TFG] on plasma prolactin level was determined throughout the estrous cycle of rats as well as in ovariectomized pregnant and lactating rats. Daily doses [each of 0.2ml TFG oil] were given orally to test animals for 15 days. Blood prolactin level was then measured by radioimmunoassay technique. Prolactin level was significantly higher in the treated groups in the diestrous phase [D1 D2 and D3] of the estrous cycle. No effect was noticed in the proestrous and estrous phases. Treatment of ovariectomized group with TFG, caused a significant rise of prolactin level, while treatment of both pregnant and lactating groups had no effect