EFFECT OF HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA CALYX TEA SUPPLEMENTED WITH FADOGIA AGRESTIS ROOT EXTRACT ON TESTICULAR HISTOLOGY AND HISTOMORPHOMETRY IN WISTAR RAT

This study was conducted to assess the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx tea (HSCT) supplemented with Fadogia agrestis (FA) root extract on testicular histology and histomorphometry in male Wistar rats. The primary aim was to evaluate how this combination affects the seminiferous tubular diameter, seminiferous luminal diameter, and seminiferous epithelial height, which are crucial parameters for assessing testicular health and spermatogenesis. The experimental subjects, male Wistar rats, were randomly divided into five groups: a control group and four treatment groups. The treatment groups received different doses of HSCT supplemented with FA extract: 20 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg, and 40 mg/kg body weight, respectively, for a specific duration. The control group was administered distilled water. Histological examination of the testicular tissues involved preparing tissue sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin, followed by microscopic evaluation. Histomorphometric analysis was performed using digital imaging software to measure the seminiferous tubular diameter, luminal diameter, and epithelial height, providing quantitative data on testicular structure. The results indicated significant dose-dependent changes in the testicular histology and histomorphometry of the treated rats. Specifically, higher doses of the HSCT and FA combination led to notable alterations in the seminiferous tubules, including increased tubular diameter and epithelial height, suggesting enhanced spermatogenic activity. These findings suggest that HSCT supplemented with FA extract has a pronounced effect on male reproductive health by potentially modulating spermatogenesis. The study provides a basis for further research into the therapeutic potential of these herbal supplements in treating male infertility and sexual dysfunction, particularly in traditional medicine contexts.