Effects of Castor Oil On Oestrous Cycles And Reproductive Hormone Levels In Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome In Female Wistar Rats

Authors

  • U. A. Peter Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Author
  • R. O. Aikpitanyi-Iduitua Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Author
  • O. J. Nzoputam Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Author
  • Y. O. Raji Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Author

Keywords:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Castor Oil, Letrozole, Oestrous Cycles, Reproductive Hormones

Abstract

Background: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) in young women is characterised by excess androgen and reduced oestrogen levels, whereas castor oil has been reported to have oestrogenic and anti-androgenic properties in animal model. The effects of castor oil on oestrous cycles and reproductive hormone levels in female Wistar rats in Letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome were investigated. Materials and method: Forty-five female rats were divided into 4 groups, with group 1 consisting of 10 rats, group 2 of 15 rats and groups 3 and 4 both consisting of 10 rats each. 1 mg/kg p.o. Letrozole was dissolved in 1 % CMC and administered to induce PCOS in group 2 to 4 rats, while group 1 rats were given CMC (vehicle) for 21 days, after which 5 rats were removed from group 2, sacrificed and assayed for confirmation of PCOS induction. Thereafter, for the next 21 days, group 1 rats (negative control, NC) and group 2 rats (positive control, PC) were given distilled water, while groups 3 and 4 rats were given castor oil (500 mg/kg BW and 1000 mg/kg BW respectively). Oestrous cycles, reproductive hormone levels and histology of the ovaries were studied. Differences in means were considered significant at p < 0.05. Results: There was reduction in testosterone levels, increase in oestrogen levels, normalization of disrupted oestrous cycle phases and length as well ovarian histology. Conclusion: Castor oil (Ricinus communis seed oil) ameliorated oestrous changes associated with PCOS and caused alterations in the reproductive hormones of female Wistar rats.

Published

2025-09-07

Issue

Section

Articles