Preliminary assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis toxicity on male Wistar rats' organs and reproductive system

Abstract

Rosemary (Rosmarinus offi cinalis L. - Lamiaceae) is a shrub used in the treatment of hepatic, intestinal, renal and respiratory affections. Its toxicity was assessed in female rats and an anti-implantation effect was reported after treatment with this plant. This work analyzes the effect of the short-term administration of R. offi cinalis extract on vital organs, on the organs of the reproductive system and sperm production of mature male Wistar rats. Adult Wistar rats were treated with 1 mL of R. offi cinalis aqueous extract at a dose level of 291.2 mg and 582.4 mg/kg of body weight for fi ve days. Body and organs weights, sperm production and food consumption were evaluated. The results showed that the lower dose administration of R. offi cinalis extract did not signifi cantly alter body and organs weight nor did it interfere with gamete production. However, animals treated with the higher dose showed signifi cant weight increase of the seminal vesicle but no signifi cant alteration of the other variables. Food intake was not affected by the treatments.