Evaluation of the Anabolic, Aphrodisiac and Reproductive Activity of Anacyclus Pyrethrum DC in Male Rats

Anacyclus pyrethrum DC (Compositae), commonly referred to as ‘Akarkara’, is widely recognized in Ayurvedic system of Indian medicine as tonic and rejuvenator. The roots are also considered aphrodisiac and sexual stimulant. Aqueous extract of the roots was studied for its effect on sexual behavior, spermatogenesis, and sperm count. Fructose levels in seminal vesicles of albino rats were also recorded. Two doses i.e. 50 and 100 mg/kg of aqueous extract on administration in albino rats showed pronounced anabolic and spermatogenic effect in animals of respective groups. The sperm count and fructose levels in seminal vesicle were markedly increased. Improvement in sexual behavior of male rats was characterized by increased mount and intromission frequency and reduced mount and intromission latency. The extract had a dose dependent influence on sperm count and seminal fructose concentration which increased significantly.