AMELIORATIVE EFFECTS OF AQUEOUS LEAF EXTRACTS OF EMILIA SONCHIFOLIA AND BRIDELIA FERRUGINEA AND AQUEOUS STEM BARK EXTRACT OF RHIZOPHORA RACEMOSA ON SPERM QUALITY IN PETROL FUME-EXPOSED MALE WISTAR RATS

Abstract

Petrol fumes, a known source of volatile organic compounds, can trigger oxidative stress and adversely affect male reproductive health. This study investigated the protective effects of aqueous extracts from Emilia sonchifolia leaves (ES), Bridelia ferruginea leaves (BF), and Rhizophora racemosa stem bark (RR) against petrol fume-induced reproductive damage in male Wistar rats. Fifty-four rats were divided into nine groups, including controls, petrol-exposed groups, and groups receiving petrol fumes plus either plant extracts (200 or 400 mg/kg) or Vitamin E (200 mg/kg). Following a 28-day exposure, petrol fumes significantly impaired sperm count, motility, and viability, increased sperm abnormalities, and depleted testicular antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase, GPx) while elevating lipid peroxidation (MDA). Histological examination confirmed severe testicular damage. Treatment with all plant extracts, particularly at 400 mg/kg, reversed these effects. ES and RR at 400 mg/kg demonstrated the most potent activity, effectively restoring sperm parameters, antioxidant defenses, and testicular architecture, with efficacy comparable to Vitamin E. BF also showed significant, though milder, protection. The findings conclude that these extracts ameliorate petrol fume-induced sperm toxicity and testicular oxidative stress in rats. Their efficacy, attributed to antioxidant phytochemicals, provides scientific support for their traditional use in male reproductive health