Effect of Agave sisalana Perrine extract on the ovarian & uterine tissues and fetal parameters: Comparative Interventional Study
Abstract
Agave sisalana (Agavaceae), commonly known as sisal plant which is an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anthelmintic, bactericidal and insecticidal activities. Its toxic effects on female reproduction are unknown. This comparative interventional study aimed to assess the ovarian and uterine tissues and fetal parameters of rats treated with the extract of sisal waste (100 mg kg-1 body weight), obtained from decortications of the A. sisalana. The control received distilled water. The treatments were performed orally for 30 consecutive days. The results showed that the estrous cycle and ovarian tissue were not affected by plant extract. There was an significantly increase(p<0.05)in the thickness of perimetrium in females treated with A. sisalana. The placental and litter weights also increased significantly whereas the litter size significantly decreased (p<0.05) in the group receiving the extract. In conclusion, A. sisalana showed no pathological changes in the ovaries and uterine endometrium, but had a negative effect on the litter size and weight.
Keywords
Download Options
Introduction
Agave sisalana commonly known as sisal which is a monocotyledonous plant from the Agavaceae family. Originally from Mexico, it is related to a great economic interest because of its tough fibers. Brazil is the largest producer and exporter of sisal fibers with 69% of global production. 1Only 4% of the leaves decortications produce fibers, and the remaining material (waste) is commonly discarded by farms and can become an important factor of environmental contamination. 2
The sisal waste consists of water, parenchymatous tissue, and cellulose, fibers of various sizes, inorganic compounds and components related to primary and secondary metabolism. This waste is rarely used, despite its indication for use as a supplement in ruminant feed2 and a raw material for the production of drugs. 3
The biological activities of this specie is mainly related to the presence of steroidal saponins in all parts of the plant. 4 Studies have shown that this secondary metabolite is responsible for different biological properties, such as hemolytic,5 anti-inflammatory, 6 antifungal, 7 and antibacterial. 6,8 However, few studies reporting phytotoxicity of these compounds have been described9 and the toxic effects of A. sisalana on female reproduction remain unknown.
So it is important to assess the reproductive toxicity of herbal extracts and secondary compounds in order to assess their gonadotoxicity and effects on fertility to ensure their medicinal use and discovery of new drugs.10
Conclusion
In conclusion, administration of Agave sisalana extract did not cause toxic effect on the ovarian tissue and uterine endometrium, but had a negative effect on the litter size and weight. The use of this medicinal plant by pregnant female population should be with caution due to its effects on pregnancy.