The Effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa and Salvia officinalis Aqueous Extracts on Reproductive Function, Antioxidant Status, and Epididymal Sperm Quality in Male Rats

Background: Phytoestrogens are non-estradiol molecules categorized as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which means they can alter the hormonal equilibrium and cause reproductive problems. Studies suggested Hibiscus sabdariffa (H. sabdariffa) possible use as alternative to hormone replacement therapy in ovarian hypofunction patients. Salvia officinalis (S. officinalis) contains phytoestrogen steroids and isoflavonoids. The purpose of this research was to examine the estrogenic effects of H. sabdariffa and S. officinalis aqueous extracts on male reproductive hormones and testicular histology and function.Methods: Three groups of six male rats each were utilized as follows: control (distilled water),  H. sabdariffa (500 mg/kg aqueous extract), and S. officinalis (500 mg/kg aqueous extract). Blood, epididymis. Testis and serum samples were gathered after 30 days for biochemical analysis, sperm characteristics, and histological evaluations.Results: Compared to the control and S. officinalis groups, H. sabdariffa caused a significant reduction in body weight (BW) and percent BW gain (%BWG). Relative to the control rats, the two extracts dramatically reduced testicular weight, sperm motility, concentration, and viability while raising abnormalities. Furthermore, the herbal extract groups demonstrated a significant decrease in blood testosterone levels while increasing serum prolactin, FSH, and LH levels. Consumption of both herbs also caused testicular histological changes such as degenerated seminiferous tubules, with a diminished number of mature spermatozoa in the tubular lumen, reduced diameter of seminiferous tubules, and the presence of exfoliated cells in the tubular lumen.Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that the aqueous extracts of H. sabdariffa and S. officinalis may negatively impact male fertility. However, more research is needed to validate these findings and investigate the mechanistic components of these impacts.Keywords: Hibiscus sabdariffa (H. sabdariffa); Salvia officinalis; Male fertility; Testosterone; FSH; LH; Prolactin; Testicular histology Humid subtropical climate; ITS; nrDNA; Taxonomy