Contraceptive Effects of Onosma armeniacum on Embryo Implantation in Rats

Abstract

O. armeniacum has traditionally been used to heal wounds, burns, dyspnea, hoarseness, hemorrhoids, abdominal aches, stomach ulcers, and gynecological problems. In this study, the embryotoxic and contraceptive effect of Onosma armeniacum root extract (A-1) was investigated in female rats. Group 1: 100 mg/kg A-1 for seven days beginning at the previous day of the mating period. Group 2: 100 mg/kg A-1 for seven days beginning at first day of the mating period. Group 3: 100 mg/kg A-1 for seven days beginning 48 hours after the mating period Group 4: 100 mg/kg A-1 for seven days beginning 120 hours after the mating period rats. Group 5: Sunflower oil + 3 days mating period (Control group). Also histopathological examinations were performed on ovary and uterus of A-1 given rats. Histopathology of ovary and uterus in the rats were not affected by A-1 supplementation. A-1 did not induce toxic effect on embryo although it induced contraceptive effects on the embryo implantation in the rats. Shikonin content of the A-1 may be responsible on the contraceptive effect in the rats.