Effect of Garcinia kola Seed Extract on Female Reproductive Functions in Rats

The effects of G. kola seed extract on oestrous cycle, ovulation, implantation and pregnancy were studied in adult female rats with the aim of its possible use as female contraceptive. The three experimental groups were fed with G. kola seed extract (200 mg kg^-1 body weight) (GEESE) and the control received distilled water once daily. Group 1 was fed with GEESE for three weeks and the oestrous cycle monitored and number of ova released recorded. Group 2 consisted of pregnant rats and received GEESE from day one of pregnancy. Equal numbers of the rats were sacrificed on days six, eight and Th of pregnancy. The total number of implants, resorption and viable foetuses were weighed, examined and recorded. Group 3 animals received GEESE daily for three weeks; half of them were sacrificed after three weeks and the others were allowed three weeks to recover from the effect of the extract. Histology of the ovary, uterus and fallopian tubes were done. The results showed that the oestrous cycle was altered with a significant reduction in the occurrence of oestrous and oestrous phase. Ovulation was partially blocked (70% blockage). No significant difference between the number and weight of the implantation sites in both pregnant control rats and the GEESE rats. No significant difference in both the foetal number and weight on day 19 of pregnancy. GEESE made the uterine detrimental gland inactive, stopped maturation of the follicles, caused acute inflammation of the tubes but all the organs showed full recovery after administration of GKSE was stopped. GEESE may be use as a contraceptive with a possible advantage of reversibility.