Effect of Temulawak (Curcuma xanthorrhiza) Extract on Sperm Counts, Morphology, and Motility of Nicotine-Induced Mice

Abstract

Background & Objective: Infertility is a health problem that affects 72.4 million couples worldwide. Infertility can occur as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle, such as a smoking habit. Cigarettes contain nicotine, a toxic compound that can trigger oxidative stress and eventually decrease fertility. Temulawak is a medicinal plant that is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used as a traditional remedy and is believed to improve fertility. We aim to study the effect of temulawak extract on the morphology, motility, and sperm counts of nicotine-induced mice. Materials & Methods: A total of 20 mice were divided into four groups (n = 5): control normal (K0); nicotine-induced (K1); and nicotine-induced treated with two different concentrations of temulawak extract, 4 mg/20 g body weight (P1) and 8 mg/20 g body weight (P2). The mice were given nicotine and temulawak for 28 days and then killed by neck dislocation. Both testes and vas deferens were collected for sperm analysis. Results: Mice treated with nicotine (K1) showed lower sperm counts (p=0.012) and motility (p<0.001) compared to mice in the control normal (K0) but had no difference in morphology. Treatment with temulawak (4 mg/20 g body weight) on nicotine-induced mice (P1) significantly increased sperm motility (p< 0.001). A double dose of temulawak extract (P2) resulted in significantly higher motility and sperm counts than in group K1. Conclusion: Temulawak treatment (8 mg/20 g body weight) on nicotine-induced mice can significantly improve motility and sperm counts.