Trop J Nat Prod Res, November 2022; 6(11):1893-1900 ISSN 2616-0684 (Print)

ISSN 2616-0692 (Electronic)

Tropical Journal of Natural Product Research

Available online at https://www.tjnpr.org
Original Research Article
Aphrodisiac Properties and Reproductive Hormones Concentrations of Ethanol Leaf
Extract of Eremomastax speciosa in Male Wistar Rats
Grace S. Effiong1*, Othuke B. Odeghe2, Nse U. Ebe1, Maryann N. Nwafor2, Chinonso C. Obu1, Emmanuel O. Nwuzor1, Ifeanyi
H. Ofoke 2 and Michael Oviri3
1
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Uyo, P. M. B. 1017, Uyo, Nigeria
2
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Madonna University, P. M. B. 05, Elele, Nigeria
3
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Delta State University, P.M.B.1, Abraka, Nigeria

ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT

Article history: The effects of Eremomastax speciosa leaf extract on reproductive activities was evaluated;
Received 06 October 2022 antioxidant activities and the phytochemistry of Eremomastax speciosa were assayed using
Revised 06 November 2022 standard methods. Thirty-five matured male Wistar rats were used for the experiment and they
Accepted 10 November 2022 were divided into five groups of seven rats each; groups 1 and 2 were the positive and normal
Published online 01 December 2022 controls respectively and were given Manix capsule and distilled water respectively. Groups 3, 4
and 5 were administered the ethanol extract at the doses of 400 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 100
mg/kg respectively. Twelve matured female rats were used for the aphrodisiac assessment. The
phytochemical screening showed the presence of Alkaloids, Tannins, Saponins, Terpenes and
Flavonoids and the leaves showed a significant free scavenging activity with an IC50 value of 90
Copyright: © 2022 Effiong et al. This is an open- μg/ml. The result showed a dose-dependent significant (P<0.05) increase in Testosterone levels
access article distributed under the terms of the and also an increase in Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
Creative Commons Attribution License, which which was not significant when compared with the normal control. The result also showed a
permits unrestricted use, distribution, and dose-dependent significant increase in the mount, intromission and ejaculatory frequencies while
reproduction in any medium, provided the original decreasing their latencies when compared with the normal control. In conclusion, the ethanol
author and source are credited. leaf extract of Eremomastax speciosa possesses aphrodisiac potentials and could boost
testosterone level which could enhance reproductive indices.

Keywords: Antioxidant, Eremomastax speciosa, Medicinal plants, Phytochemicals, Reproduction,

Reproductive Hormones.
Introduction
Reproduction is the process by which organisms create Those under research are classified into major categories like
descendants.1 This is a characteristic that all living things have in polyphenols, which include flavonoids, phenolic acids, and
common and sets them apart from nonliving things. The major stilbenes/lignans.5,7 Phytochemicals are chemical compounds formed
function of the reproductive system is to ensure the survival of the during the plants' normal metabolic processes. These chemicals are
species. Other systems in the body, such as the endocrine and urinary often referred to as secondary metabolites of which there are several
systems, work continuously to maintain homeostasis for the survival classes including alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, glycosides, gums,
of the individual. An individual may live a long, healthy, and happy polysaccharides, phenols, tannins, terpenes and terpenoids. 8
life without producing offspring, but if the species is to continue, at Aphrodisiac substances are often used to enhance sexual performance
least some individuals must produce offspring. Within the context of and treat sexual dysfunction. The modern definition of aphrodisiac can
producing offspring, the reproductive system has four functions: to vary, but it is generally regarded as a substance that increases sexual
produce egg and sperm cells; to transport and sustain these cells; to desire (i.e., libido) and/or sexual pleasure9 and it include those
nurture the developing offspring; to produce hormones.1 The human substances which aid in the proper functioning of the male and female
reproductive system includes the male reproductive system which sex organs.10,11 These substances can vary from foods, drinks,
functions to produce and deposit sperm; and the female reproductive beverages, vitamins, minerals to other natural or synthetic chemicals
system which functions to produce egg cells, and to protect and that were claimed by diverse cultures could improve men stamina,
nourish the fetus until birth.2 Phytochemicals are chemicals of plant libido, and sexual function.12 Aphrodisiac is found widely in various
origin. 3 They play a role in plant growth or defense against plant and animal sources and even though most are not yet
competitors, predators, or pathogens and generally have biological scientifically confirmed, many cultures practice that knowledge to
activity in the plant host. 4 Phytochemicals are regarded generally as treat those with a sexual problem.
research compounds instead of essential nutrients due to a lack of Male sexual behaviour comprises a complex pattern of genital and
possible proof of their health effects. 5, 6 somatomotor responses. Hormones act via receptors in the brain,
spinal, and peripheral sites to bias sensory inputs and motor outputs to
*Corresponding author. E mail: [email protected] favour sexual responsiveness. Copulation includes mounts,
Tel: 08063222797. intromissions, and ejaculations, followed by sexual quiescence. After
6–12 ejaculations, male rats become sexually satiated. Neural controls
Citation: Effiong GS, Odeghe OB, Ebe NU, Nwafor MN, Obu CC, include chemosensory inputs via the main and accessory olfactory
Nwuzor EO, Ofoke IH, Oviri M.. Aphrodisiac Properties and Reproductive systems to the medial amygdala, which transmits information directly
Hormones Concentrations of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Eremomastax and indirectly to the medial preoptic area (mPOA), which integrates
speciosa in Male Wistar Rats. Trop J Nat Prod Res. 2022; 6(11):1893- sensory and hormonal information and elicits genital reflexes and
1900. http://www.doi.org/10.26538/tjnpr/v6i11.25
copulatory patterns and contributes to sexual motivation. 13
Official Journal of Natural Product Research Group, Faculty of Pharmacy,
Sexual behaviour parameters include a wide variety of activities
University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. individuals engage in to express their sexuality. 14 The parameters

1893
© 2022 the authors. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
 Trop J Nat Prod Res, November 2022; 6(11):1893-1900 ISSN 2616-0684 (Print)
ISSN 2616-0692 (Electronic)

include mount Latency (ML), intromission Latency (IL), ejaculatory Experimental Animals (Ethical Approval Number:
Latency (EL), mount Frequency (MF), intromission Frequency (IF), UU/CH/EC/22/105)
ejaculatory Frequency (EF).15,16 Thirty-five male Wistar rats weighing 150-200g were used. The rats
Eremomastax speciosa (Hochst.) Cufod commonly known as ―edem were bought from the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria and
iduodut‖ or ―ndadad edem‖ by Ibibio people and ―African blood brought to the Department of Biochemistry, University of Uyo. The
tonic‖ in Cameroon belong to the family Acanthaceae. 17 It is a animals were kept in wooden cages with a wire mesh top and
perennial herb found in Africa along the rainforest zone and occurs as maintained under standard conditions of humidity (50±5%) and
a weed. It is cultivated in Cameroon and Akwa-Ibom in Nigeria due to temperature (28±2OC) and maintained in a 12hours light/dark cycle.
its medicinal values. 18 It is a polymorphous herb that grows up to 2 m They had free access to feeds and water daily and were acclimatized
high with a remarkable quadrangular stem. 19 The leaf (decoction or for 14 days before the commencement of the work. The Ethical
infusion or maceration) is used by the natives in the treatment of Committee for the use of laboratory Animals’29 Recommendations,
dysentery, anaemia, menstrual pain, fracture, haemorrhoids and University of Uyo, Nigeria was adhered to in the rats’ management.
urinary tract infection. 18, 20, 17 The leaves of Eremomastax speciosa are
also used to enhance fertility and arrest postpartum bleeding in women Experimental Design
of reproductive age among the Southern Regions of Cameroun and The animals were divided into five groups of seven rats each and
Nigeria. 21, 22, 23 Hormones are the drivers of human reproduction, treated as shown in Table 1. Group I was the positive control and
responsible for sexual development and controlling the menstrual administered the Manix capsule at a dose of 9.0 mg/kg, group II was
cycle. Sex hormones are responsible for driving sexual development normal control, administered distilled water (5 ml/kg) while groups
(puberty) and the main reproductive hormones are oestrogen and III, IV and V were administered the extract at a dose of 400 mg/kg,
testosterone. 24 The male and female reproductive cycles are controlled 200 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg respectively. All the administration was
by hormones released from the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary as done by oral route and it lasted for 14 days. 48 hours before the last
well as hormones from reproductive tissues and organs. The day of administration, 17, β-estradiol was administered to 12 selected
hypothalamus monitors the need for the FSH and LH hormones made female animals subcutaneously to induce oestrous and enable vaginal
and released from the anterior pituitary. FSH and LH affect opening; furthermore 8 hours before the mating experiment was
reproductive structures to cause the formation of sperm and the carried out, progesterone was also administered to these 12 selected
preparation of eggs for release and possible fertilization. 25 In the male, female animals subcutaneously to allow for mating to occur on the last
FSH and LH stimulate Sertoli cells and interstitial cells of Leydig in day of administration when mounting would be done.
the testes to facilitate sperm production. The Leydig cells produce
testosterone, which also is responsible for the secondary sexual Male Rat Sexual Behavior: Test Procedure
characteristics of males. 26 Locally it is reported that the leaves of 48 hours before the last day of administration of extracts, 17, β-
Eremomastax speciosa can have an improved effect on sexual estradiol was administered to 12 selected female animals
behaviour in males27 hence, the leaves were evaluated for reproductive subcutaneously to induce oestrous and enable vaginal opening;
activities. furthermore 8 hours before the mating experiment was carried out,
progesterone was also administered to these 12 selected female
animals subcutaneously to allow for mating to occur on the last day of
Materials and Methods administration when mounting would be done as follows;
Collection and Identification of Plant Material Mount Latency (ML): This is the time interval between the
Eremomastax speciosa was acquired from Apkajo community in introduction of the female and the first mount by the male.
Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria in May 2019. Intromission Latency (IL): This is the time interval between the
The plant was identified and authenticated by Prof. (Mrs.) Uduak introduction of the female and the first intromission by the male.
Eshiet of the Department of Botany and Ecological Studies, Faculty of Ejaculatory Latency (EL): This is the time between the first
Science, University of Uyo, Nigeria. It was given the Voucher ejaculation and the first intromission of the male rats.
Number UUPH1 (b) and was deposited at the Department of Mount Frequency (MF): This is the total number of mounts made by
Pharmacognosy and natural medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy the male rats during the observation period.
Herbarium. Intromission Frequency (IF): This is the number of intromissions from
the time of introduction of the female until ejaculation by the male.
Preparation and Extraction of Plant Material Ejaculatory Frequency (EF): This is the number of times semen was
The wet method of extraction was used for the extraction.28 The leaves ejected from the male copulatory organ. After the sexual behaviour
were plucked from the plant stalk, thereafter the leaves were washed to test. 15,16
remove the debris, 500 g of the leaves were cut into pieces and
immersed in 2.5 L of 70% ethanol and kept in an amber-coloured Assay Procedure for Serum Hormones
bottle for 72hours. At the end of the three days, the mixture was Determination of concentration of Testosterone in serum using assay
filtered using a cheesecloth and then with Whatman No.1 filter paper. kits from Monobind Inc.
The filtrate was then put in a beaker and kept in a water bath at 30- The desired number of coated wells was secured in a holder. Ten
40OC, it yielded 25g of extract and stored in a refrigerator until needed microliter (10 µl) of standards, specimens and control were dispensed
for analysis. into appropriate wells. Anti-testosterone reagent (50 µL) was
dispensed into each well and mixed thoroughly.30

Table 1: Experimental Design

Groups No. of Animals Treatment Dosage
I (Positive control (PC)) 7 Manix 9.0 mg/kg
II (Normal control (NC)) 7 Distilled water 5 ml
III (400 mg/kg extract) 7 Crude extract of Eremomastax speciosa 400 mg/Kg
IV (200 mg/kg extract) 7 Crude extract of Eremomastax speciosa 200 mg/Kg
V (100 mg/kg extract) 7 Crude extract of Eremomastax speciosa 100 mg/Kg

1894
© 2022 the authors. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
 Trop J Nat Prod Res, November 2022; 6(11):1893-1900 ISSN 2616-0684 (Print)
ISSN 2616-0692 (Electronic)

Testosterone HRP conjugate reagent (100 µL) was dispensed into each
well and incubated for 90 mins at 37°C. The microwells were then
rinsed and flicked 5 times with wash buffer. TMB substrate (1000 µL) NC PC HD MD LD
was dispensed to each well and gently mixed for 10 seconds. The Series1,
mixture was incubated at room temperature (18-22°C) for 20mins. The NC, 4.70
reaction was stopped by addition of stop solution to each well and
gently mixed for 30 seconds to ensure a complete colour change.
Absorbance at 450nm was read within 15mins with a microtiter plate Series1,

Mount Latency(s)
reader. LD, 3.37
Determination of concentration of Follicle Stimulating Hormone Series1,
(FSH) in serum using assay kits from Monobind Inc MD, 2.57
The microwell for each serum reference, control and specimen were
formatted and assayed in duplicate. The appropriate serum reference,
control and specimen (50 µL) were pipetted into the assigned wells.
FSH enzyme reagent solution (100 µL) was added to all wells. The Series1,
microplate was gently swirled for 20-30 seconds to mix and then HD, 0.96
covered. The mixture was incubated at room temperature for 60 mins.
The contents of microplate was discarded by decantation and the Series1,
plates blotted dry with absorbent paper. Wash buffer (350 µL) was PC, 0.16
added to the wells then decanted by tapping and blotting. This was
repeated twice for a total of 3 washes. Working substrate solution (100
µL) was added to all the wells. This were done in the same order to Table 2: Results of Phytochemical Screening of Leaf Extract
minimize reaction time differences between wells. The mixture was
incubated for 15mins at room temperature. Stop solution (50 µL) was Tests Observation Inference
then added to each well and gently mixed for 20-30 seconds. Finally,
Alkaloids Cream precipitate +
the absorbance in each well was read at 450nm in a microplate reader.
This was done within 30mins of adding the stop solution 31. Keller-Kiliani No brown ring -
Flavonoids Yellow colouration +
Determination of concentration of Luteinizing Hormone in serum
using assay kits from Monobind Inc. Saponins Persistent foaming +
The desired number of coated wells was secured in a holder. Fifty
Tannins Dark green colour +
microliter (50 µL) of standards, specimens and control were dispensed
into appropriate wells. LH Enzyme reagent (100 µL) was dispensed Terpenes Reddish-brown colour +
into each well, swirled thoroughly and allowed to mix for 20-30
Combined Anthraquinones Pink colouration +
seconds. The mixture was allowed to incubate for 60 minutes at room
temperature. The contents of the micro wells were discarded by Free Anthraquinones No Pink colouration -
decantation, then rinsed and flicked 3 times with wash buffer (350
Phlobatannins No deposition of red precipitate -
µL). Working substrate solution (100 µL) was dispensed to each well.
The mixture was incubated at room temperature for 15 minutes. The Key: - Absent, + Positive.
reaction was stopped by addition of stop solution (50 µL) to each well
and gently mixed for 15-20 seconds to ensure a complete colour Table 3: Results of Antioxidant Screening of Extract
change. Absorbance at 450 nm (using a reference wavelength of 620-
630 nm to minimize well imperfection) was read within 30 minutes Group Conc. Absorbance % IC50
with a microplate reader 31.
(μg/ml) (517 nm) Inhibition
Data Analysis Control 1.167 ± 0.003 0
Data were presented as mean ± standard error of mean (SEM) and
analyzed with statistical package of social science (SPSS) version 20 15.625 1.128 ± 0.002 23.34
using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Significance was Ethanol 31.25 0.995 ± 0.004 34.70
accepted at the level of p < 0.05.
Extract 62.50 0.676 ± 0.003 42.10 90 μg/ml
125.00 0.317 ± 0.002 72.80
Results and Discussion
250.00 0.139 ± 0.001 88.10
Phytochemical screening
The phytochemical screening of ethanol leaf extract of Eremomastax Control 1.368 ± 0.001 0
speciosa plant as shown in Table 2, revealed the presence of the
15.625 0.468 ± 0.001 6.20
following secondary metabolites: Alkaloids, Tannins, Saponins,
Terpenes, Flavonoids and Combined Anthroquinone. The Ascorbic 31.25 0.445 ± 0.001 10.80 110
phytochemical screening of the extract, revealed the presence of
Acid 62.50 0.353 ± 0.001 29.30 μg/ml
Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Saponins, Terpenes, Tannins, and Combined
Anthraquinones while it showed an absence of free anthraquinones, 125.00 0.208 ± 0.002 58.30
Cardiac Glycosides and phlobatannin. This result agrees with the
250.00 0.092 ± 0.001 81.60
works of. 22, 33, 23, 34, 35, 36, 37 These phytochemical compounds are known
to play important roles in the bioactivity of medicinal plants. The
flavonoids which are predominant compounds in the E. speciosa are The result showed that the crude ethanol leaf extract had a significant
known to exhibit a wide range of biological activities. 34 free radical scavenging activity, with IC50 90μg/mL when compared
with the IC50 of Ascorbic acid (110μg/mL). The results of the DPPH
Antioxidant Activity of Eremomastax speciosa Leaves free scavenging activity of the crude ethanol extract of Eremomastax
The free radical scavenging activities of extract and ascorbic acid are speciosa showed that the crude ethanol extract possessed significant
as shown in Table 3. free radical scavenging activity, with an IC50 value of 90μg/mL,

1895
© 2022 the authors. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
 Trop J Nat Prod Res, November 2022; 6(11):1893-1900 ISSN 2616-0684 (Print)
ISSN 2616-0692 (Electronic)

comparing with obtained IC50 value of ascorbic acid (110 μg/mL) 12.00
NC PC HD MD LD
indicated that the crude extract exhibited/possesses antioxidant activity
which is similar to the result obtained by. 36,37,38 10.00

intromission Latency (S)

Aphrodisiacs are substances that enhance sexual drive/sexual pleasure
and can arouse sexual desire or libido.39 They are substances that can 8.00
be used to modify impaired sexual functions. In male rats, the extract
caused a marked change in sexual behaviour. There was a significant 6.00
decrease in mount latency, with a corresponding increase in mount
frequency, indicating enhanced arousal and sexual vigour. There was
4.00
also a decrease in intromission latency and an increase in intromission
frequency indicative of an increased copulation rate. This result was
similar to the work of Kosses30 on aqueous extract of Eremomastax 2.00
speciosa leaf. These indices of libido, when taken together pointed to
the fact that the extract may possess aphrodisiac properties; such 0.00
increases in the frequencies of mount and intromission, suggest that NC PC HD MD LD
libido, sexual vigour and sexual performance were enhanced. 40 This Figure 2: The effect of the extract on the Intromission Latency
potential of the leaf extracts could be due to the abundance of Where HD = 400mg/kg, MD = 200mg/kg, LD = 100mg/kg
flavonoids in the leaf extract; flavonoids are involved in penile
erection onset and improve sexual performance.41,42,43 30.00
NC PC HD MD LD
Effects of Extract on Sexual Behavior of Male Wistar Rats 25.00
There was a significant increase (p<0.05) in mount, intromission and

mount Frequency
ejaculatory frequencies of extract groups when compared with the 20.00
normal control while, there were significant decreases (p<0.005) in
mount, intromission, ejaculatory latencies and penile erection latencies 15.00
(Figure 1-8). In the hormonal assay result, testosterone and luteinizing
hormones’ levels increased in a dose-dependent manner; with that of 10.00
200mg/kg treated rats increasing but declining in the 400 mg/kg group
thereby, suggesting that 400 mg/kg administration of the extract could 5.00
be harmful to the male reproductive system. Testosterone is a primary
sex hormone that promotes the development of the reproductive
0.00
organs and secondary sexual characteristics in males,39 luteinizing
NC PC HD MD LD
hormones, on the other hand, promotes male reproductive functions
via stimulation of testosterone production from Leydig cells in the Figure 3: The effect of the extract on the Mount Frequency
testis.44,39 This may be the reason for the increase in testosterone Where HD = 400mg/kg, MD = 200mg/kg, LD = 100mg/kg
concentration in the low and moderate dose treated groups as LH are
increased. Observations in declined testosterone concentration 30.00
NC PC HD MD LD
following high-dose treatment may have resulted from either the direct
Intromission Frequency

effect of the extract on the Leydig cells or indirectly as a consequence 25.00

of decreased luteinizing hormone level in the group. Testosterone
concentration decline is reportedly a major sign of infertility. 45 20.00
Follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH) increased in concentration
following treatment with the extract thus suggesting that the extract 15.00
may have improved reproductive function in the treated male rats.
FSH in males, regulates sexual development, growth, pubertal 10.00
maturation and reproductive qualities by enhancing the induction and
maintenance of normal sperm production.46,47 Although, FSH 5.00
concentration’s excessive increase as observed in the high dose treated
rats may affect reproduction negatively due to its effect on 0.00
spermatogenesis. It is established that the most common endocrine NC PC HD MD LD
abnormality associated with male infertility or subfertility is elevated Figure 4: The effect of the extract on the Intromission
FSH concentration, which generally indicates the impairment of Frequency. Where HD = 400mg/kg, MD = 200mg/kg, LD =
spermatogenesis and primary testicular defect. 48 100mg/kg.

6.00 NC PC HD MD LD 16.00
NC PC HD MD LD
14.00
5.00
Ejaculatory Latency (S)

12.00
Mount Latency(s)

4.00
10.00
3.00 8.00

6.00
2.00
4.00
1.00
2.00
0.00 0.00
NC PC HD MD LD NC PC HD MD LD

Figure 1: The effect of the extract on the Mount Latency Figure 5: The effect of the extract on the Ejaculatory Latency
Where HD = 400 mg/kg, MD = 200mg/kg, LD = 100 mg/kg Where HD = 400 mg/kg, MD = 200 mg/kg, LD = 100 mg/kg

1896
© 2022 the authors. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
 Trop J Nat Prod Res, November 2022; 6(11):1893-1900 ISSN 2616-0684 (Print)
ISSN 2616-0692 (Electronic)

20.00
NC PC HD MD LD
18.00
16.00
Penile Erection Latency (S)

14.00
12.00
10.00
8.00
6.00
4.00
2.00
0.00
NC PC HD MD LD Figure 9: The Effect of Eremomastax Speciosa Leaf Extract
Figure 6: The effect of the extract on the Penile Erection Latency. on Luteinizing Hormone. Where High Dose = 400 mg/kg, medium
Where HD = 400 mg/kg, MD = 200 mg/kg, LD = 100 mg/kg dose = 200 mg/kg, Low dose = 100 mg/kg

30.00
NC PC HD MD LD
23.20
25.00 22.40

20.00 18.20
Ejaculatory Frequency

13.40
15.00

10.00

5.00

0.00
NC PC HD MD LD
Figure 10: The Effect of Eremomastax speciosa Leaf Extract
Figure 7: The effect of the extract on the Ejaculatory
Frequency. Where HD = 400 mg/kg, MD = 200 mg/kg, LD = 100 mg/kg
on Testosterone. Where High Dose = 400 mg/kg, medium dose =
200 mg/kg, Low dose = 100 mg/kg

20.00
NC PC HD MD LD
18.00

16.00

14.00

12.00
Penile Erection

10.00

8.00

6.00

4.00

2.00

0.00
NC PC HD MD LD
Figure 8: The effect of the extract on the Penile Erection. Figure 11: The Effect of Eremomastax speciosa Leaf Extract
Where HD = 400 mg/kg, MD = 200 mg/kg, LD = 100 mg/kg on Follicle Stimulating Hormone. Where High Dose = 400 mg/kg,
medium dose = 200 mg/kg, Low dose = 100 mg/kg.

1897
© 2022 the authors. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
 Trop J Nat Prod Res, November 2022; 6(11):1893-1900 ISSN 2616-0684 (Print)
ISSN 2616-0692 (Electronic)

Conclusion 19. Amang AP, Tan PV, Ernestine N, Barthélemy N. Antisecretory

action of the extract of the aerial parts of Eremomastax speciosa
The results showed that the ethanol leaf extract of Eremomastax (Acanthaceae) occurs through antihistaminic and
speciosa may improve sexual behaviour in male rats. It was also anticholinergic pathways. Adv in Pharmacol Sci. 2014;
observed that the extract caused an increase in serum testosterone level 20(14):1-9.
thereby suggesting an aphrodisiac activity. The effects of this extract 20. Kuete V, Voukeng IK, Tsobou R, Mbaveng AT, Wiench B,
may be attributed to its phytochemical constituents. Beng VP, Efferth T. Cytotoxicity of Elaoephorbia drupifera and
other Cameroonian medicinal plants against drug-sensitive and
Conflict of Interest multidrug-resistant cancer cells. BMC Comple and Alter Med.
2013; 13:250-260.
The authors declare no conflict of interest. 21. Telefo PB, Lienou LL, Yemele MD, Lemfack MC, Mouokeu C,
Goka CS, Tagne SR, Moundipa FP. Ethnopharmacological
survey of plants used for the treatment of female infertility in
Authors’ Declaration
Baham, Cameroon. J Ethnophar. 2011; 136:178-187.
The authors hereby declare that the work presented in this article is 22. Mboso OE, Eyong EU, Odey MO, Osakwe E. Comparative
original and that any liability for claims relating to the content of this phytochemical screening of Ereromastax speciosa and
article will be borne by them. Ereromastax polysperma. J Nat. Prod. Plant Resour. 2013;
3(2):37-41.
23. Mboso OE, Tamfu NA, Iwara IA, Eyong EU, Iqbal MC.
References Chemical Constituents of Eremomastax speciosa (Hochst.)
1. Ivell R. Research in Reproduction: Challenges, Needs, and Cufod Leaves and its Cytotoxic Potential on NIH-3T3 Cells.
Opportunities. Front Physiology 2017; 8:46 Short Communication. Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop., 2020;
2. Brehm E and Flaws JA. Transgenerational Effects of 34(3):633-640.
Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals on Male and Female 24. Guerriero G. Vertebrate sex steroid receptors: evolution,
Reproduction. Endocrinology. 2019; 160(6):1421-1435. ligands, and neurodistribution". Annals of the New York
3. Breslin A. The Chemical Composition of Green Plants, Academy of Sciences. 2009; 1163:154–68.
Sciencing, Leaf Group Ltd, 2017. 25. Copland JA, Sheffield-Moore M, Koldzic-Zivanovic N, Gentry
4. Molyneux RJ, Lee ST, Gardner DR, Panter KE, James LF. S, Lamprou G, Tzortzatou-Stathopoulou F, Zoumpourlis V,
Phytochemicals: the good, the bad and the ugly, Urban RJ, Vlahopoulos SA. "Sex steroid receptors in skeletal
Phytochemistry. 2007; 68:22–24. differentiation and epithelial neoplasia: is tissue specific
5. Heneman KK and Zidenberg-Cherr SS. Phytochemicals (PDF). intervention possible?". BioEssays. 2009; 31(6):629–41.
University of California Cooperative Extension, 2008. 26. Hakur MK and Paramanik V. "Role of steroid hormone
6. Ammar A, Naoufal L, Azam B, Dennis GW, David AL. coregulators in health and disease". Hormone Research, 2009;
Phytochemicals: Extraction, Isolation and Identification of 71(4):194–200.
Bioactive Compounds from Plant Extracts. Plants (Basel). 2017; 27. Nchegang B, Mezui C, Longo F, Nkwengoua ZE, Amang AP,
6(4):42. Tan PV. Effects of the Aqueous Extract of Eremomastax
7. Alireza M, Marzieh B, Sepideh S, Azam B. Carotenoids: speciosa (Acanthaceae) on Sexual Behavior in Normal Male
biochemistry, pharmacology and treatment. Br J Pharmacol. Rats. BioMed Res. Int. 2016; 1-10.
2017; 174(11):1290-1324. 28. Effiong GS, Odeghe OB, Ebe NU, Enidiok SE, Luke UO,
8. Okwu DE. Phytochemicals and Vitamin Content of indigenous Nwuzor EO, Enidiok ES. Effect of Ethanol Leaf Extract of
species of South Eastern Nigeria. J sustained Agri Env. 2004; Gongronema latifolium (Bush Buck) on the Reproductive
6:30-57. System of Male Albino Rats. Asian J Res Biochem. 2022;
9. Melnyk JP and Marcone MF. Aphrodisiacs from plant and 10(2):41-51.
animal sources—A review of current scientific literature. Food 29. The Development of Science-based Guidelines for Laboratory
Research International. 2011; 44(4):840–850. Animal Care: Proceedings of the November 2003 International
10. Sandroni P. Aphrodisiacs past and present: a historical review. Workshop (2004).
Clin Autonomic Res. 2001; 11(5):303−307. 30. Kosasa TS. Measurement of human luteinizing hormone. J
11. Shamloul R. Natural aphrodisiacs. The J Sex Med. 2010; reproduct med. 1981; 26:201-6.
7(1):39−49. 31. Saxena BB, Demura H, Gandy HM, Peterson RE.
12. Krychman ML, Gubili J, Pereira L, Holstein L, Cassileth B. Radioimmunoassay of human follicle stimulating and
Female sexual enhancers and nutraceuticals. Curr Sex Health luteinizing hormones in plasma. The J Clin Endocrinol
Rep. 2007; 4:177−182. Metabolism, 1986; 28(4):519-534.
13. Hull EM and Rodríguez-Manzo G. Mammalian Hormone- 32. Tietz NW. Clinical Guide to Laboratory Test. WB Saunders
Behavior Systems, in Hormones, Brain and Behavior (2nd Ed.), Company. 1995.
2009. 33. Ndam LM, Mih AM, Fongod AGN, Tening AS, Tonjock RK,
14. Crooks R and Baur K. Our sexuality (10th ed.). Pacific Grove, Enang JE, Fujii Y. Phytochemical screening of the bioactive
CA: Thomson, 2008. compounds in twenty (20). Cameroonian medicinal plants. Int.
15. Vikas S, Mayank T, Nagendra SC, Vinod KD. Evaluation of the J. Curr Microbiol App Sci. 2014; 3(12):768–778.
anabolic, aphrodisiac and reproductive activity of Anacyclus 34. Essien GE, Effiong GS, Ebe NU, Enoch EN, Nwuzor EO.
pyrethrum dc in male rats. Sci Pharm. 2009; 77:97–110. Effect of ethanol leaf extract of Telfairia occidentalis on male
16. Brown JL. Sexual Behavior. In: Gellman M.D., Turner J.R. reproductive activities. GSC Advanced Research and Reviews.
(eds) Encyclopedia of Behavioural Medicine. Springer, New 2020; 05(03):074–084.
York, NY. 35. Enin GN, Okokon JE, Onukak JS. Phytochemical Screening of
17. Iba IU, Etuk EU, Akpanabiatu MI, Item E, Ekong IN. Anti- Solenostemon monostachyus and the Effect of Extract and
anaemic and nephrotoxic effect of ethanolic extract Fractions on Castor Oil-Induced Diarrhoea in Rats. Trop J Nat
Eremomastax speciosa. Merit Res. J. of Medicine and Medical Prod Res. 2021; 5(4):626-629.
Sci. 2015; 3(1):10-12. 36. Mboso OE, Eyong EU, Odey MO, Osakwe E. Comparative
18. Oben JE, Assi SE, Agbor GA, Musoro DF. Effect of phytochemical screening of Ereromastax speciosa and
Eremomastax speciosa on experimental diarrhea. Afri. J. of Ereromastax polysperma. J Nat Prod Plant Resour. 2013; 3:37-
Trad. Complement and Altern. Med. 2006; 3(1):95–100. 41.

1898
© 2022 the authors. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
 Trop J Nat Prod Res, November 2022; 6(11):1893-1900 ISSN 2616-0684 (Print)
ISSN 2616-0692 (Electronic)

37. Kumar S and Pandey AK. Chemistry and Biological Activities 43. Hnatyszyn O, Moscatelli V, Rondinaetal R. ―Flavonoids from
of Flavonoids: An Overview. Hindawi Publishing Corporation. Achyrocline satureioides with relaxant effects on the smooth
The Scientific World Journal/2013/Article muscle of Guinea pig corpus cavernosum,‖ Phytomedicine,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/16275 2004; 11(4):366–369.
38. Sagnia B, Fedeli D, Casetti R, Montesano C, Falcioni G, Colizzi 44. Sembulingam K and Prema S. Essential of medical physiology,
V. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Extracts (7th ed.). Jaypee Brothers, New Delhi, 2016; 497-517.
from Cassia alata, Eleusine indica, Eremomastax speciosa, 45. Payne AH and O'Shaughnessy P. "Structure, function and
Carica papaya and Polyscias fulva Medicinal Plants Collected regulation of steroidogenic enzymes in the leydig cell" In
in Cameroon. PLoS ONE, 2014; 9(8):e103999. Payne. A.H., Hardy, M.P., Russel, L.D., Leydig cell Vienna
39. Onoja SO, Eke C, Ejiofor E, Madubuike KG, Ezeja MI, Omeh [II]: Cache River Press, 1996; 260–85.
YN, Anaga AO. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti- 46. Okereke C and Onuoha S. Effect of ethanolic extract of
nociceptive properties of hydromethanol extract of Cannabis sativa on progesterone and estrogen hormones in
Eremomastax speciosa (hochst.) Cufod leaf. Afri J Trad female Wistar rats. Reprod Sys Sex Dis. 2015; 4:150-153.
Comple and Alter Med. 2017; 14(6):56-63. 47. Simoni M, Weinbauer GF, Gromoll J, Nieschlag E. Role of
40. Gauthaman k, Adaikan PG, Prascad MG. Aphrodisiac property FSH in male gonadal function. Annales D’ Endocrinologie,
of Tribulus terrestris Extract in Normal and Castrated Rats. Life 1999; 60:102-106.
of Sci. 2002; 71:1385-96. 48. Vasudevan DM, Sreekumari S, Vaidyanathan K. Textbook of
41. Ratusooriya WD and Dharmasiri MG. Effects of Terminalis Biochemistry for Medical Students, Jaypee Brothers Medical
Catappa seeds on Sexual Behavior and fertility of male Rats. Publishers Ltd (6th ed.), India, 2011; 529-537.
Asian J Androl. 2000; 2:213-219. 49. Hideyuki K and Koichi N. Focus issue on male infertility. Adv
42. Arletti R, Benelli A, Cavazzuti E, Scarpetta G, Bertolini A. Urol. 2012; 1-6.
―Stimulating property of Turnera diffusa and Pfaffia paniculata
extracts on the sexual behaviour of male rats,
Psychopharmacology, 1999; 143(1):15–19.

1899
© 2022 the authors. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License