The Journal of Phytopharmacology, 2022;11(4):233-242 ; DOI:10.31254/phyto.2022.11402
Methanol extracts of Vernonia amygdalina Del increase the sex ratio of offspring in Rattus norvegicus rats
Wambugu N. Enoc1,2 , Mwonjoria J. K. Maina1 , Njagi Eliud1
1. Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kenyatta University, Nairobi County, Kenya
2. Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Received: 2nd June, 2022 / Accepted: 4th July, 2022
Several sex selection methods are available but with varying success rates, availability, and affordability. Vernonia amygdalina has been used by some Kenyan communities for the male child pre-selection at conception but these claims have not been scientifically ascertained. This study aims at evaluating the ability of this herbal plant to pre-select for the male child at conception. The roots of the plant were collected and processed before extraction using methanol. The obtained crude plant extracts were orally administered to Rattus norvegicus rats before and during mating for one week. Crude extracts at doses of 50, 87, and 150mg/kg body weight were used to evaluate the effects of the plant on the sex ratio of pups and factors related to sex ratio. A P value of P
Sex selection, Sex ratio, Vernonia amygdalina, Vaginal pH, Estrogen, Cortisol
HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE
Enoc WN, Maina MJK, Eliud N. Methanol extracts of Vernonia amygdalina Del increase the sex ratio of offspring in Rattus norvegicus rats. J Phytopharmacol 2022; 11(4):233-242. doi: 10.31254/phyto.2022.11402
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