Effects of Salvadora persica L. (Miswak) Aqueous Extract on Some Physiological Indices of Female Albino Rats

Abstract

Objective: Salvadora persica (Miswak) is one of the folk medicinal plants commonly used by some women to delay menses.This study was conducted to evaluate the physiological effects-induced in female albino rats after administration of Salvadora persica aqueous extract. Methods: 20 female rats weighing between 160-180 g were randomized into two groups of 10 animals each. Group 1 (Control group) was orally administered with distilled water (1 ml/100 g bw) while Groups 2 (Miswak-treated group) was orally administered with 7 mg/100 g bw of the plant aqueous extract for 30 consecutive days. Estrus cycle pattern was monitored by daily observation of vaginal smears whereas glucose, total proteins, albumin, globulin, lipid profile, liver function and kidney function indices in addtion to reproductive hormones (estradiol and progesterone) and tumor markers (CA 15-3 and CA-125) were determined in sera at the end of the experiment. Results: In comparison to the control group, S. persica aqueous extract significantly elevated the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) and decreased serum glucose, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and TC/HDL and LDL/HDL ratios while the values of body weight, liver function indices, kidney function indices and the estimated tumor markers in the extract treated group were approximately similar to those of control animals. Furthermore, Miswak aqueous extract showed adverse effects on sexual hormones, by reducing estradiol and increasing progesterone levels accompained with an irregular estrous cycle with shortened proestrus, estrus and metestrus phases and with lengthened diestrus phase. Conclusions: Overall, Miswak aqueous extract is safe as a natural agent for postponement of menstruation and can be used as a contraceptive plant.