Effect of Dendrophthoe falcata (L.f.) Ettingsh on female reproductive system in Wistar rats: a focus on antifertility efficacy.

Background: This study was designed to assess the effect of one traditionally used antifertility plant, Dendrophthoe falcata (L.f.) Ettingsh (Loranthaceae), on female reproductive system, fertility and safety, by oral administration to adult female Wistar rats.

Study Design: After the oral acute toxicity study, the hydroalcoholic extract of the aerial parts was administered at three doses. Treatment started at weaning and continued until Day 0 postpartum.

Results: The LD(50) value was found to be 4.55 g/kg body weight. Vaginal opening occurred earlier in treated females when compared with controls. Analysis of vaginal smears revealed that all animals were cycling, although the length of the diestrus was longer in treated groups. In postcoital testing, the extract was found to be more effective in causing significant anti-implantation activity and reduction in the number of litters born. The extract also exhibited weak estrogenic activity when given alone, and when given along with ethinyl estradiol, it exhibited slight antiestrogenic activity in immature ovariectomized rats.

Conclusion: All observations suggest that the extract has antifertility effect and is safe at effective doses employed in the study.