JAMES AIMUAMWOSA

Reproductive health disorders are increasingly prevalent globally, necessitating investigation into natural therapeutic alternatives with fewer adverse effects. This research aimed to examine the histomorphological effects of Chrysophyllum albidum fruit extract on the reproductive organs of albino rats. Twenty-four healthy albino rats weighing 180-200g were used for the experimental study. The animals were procured from the Animal House of the Department of Anatomy, University of Benin, and maintained under standard laboratory conditions with unrestricted access to pelleted feed and water ad libitum. The rats were divided into four groups: Group A served as the control (n=2), receiving only pelleted feed and distilled water for 30 consecutive days. Group B (n=4) was administered 250mg/kg body weight of Chrysophyllum albidum fruit extract orally via gavage along with standard feed and water for 30 days. Group C (n=4) received 500mg/kg body weight of the extract under similar conditions. Group D (n=4) was administered 1000mg/kg body weight of the extract following the same protocol. On the final day, blood samples were collected for hormonal analysis, and reproductive organs (testes, ovaries) were harvested, weighed, and fixed in 10% formal saline. Hematoxylin and eosin staining techniques were employed for histopathological examination under light microscopy. Hormonal levels (testosterone and progesterone) were determined using ELISA techniques. Results revealed significant changes in hematological parameters including decreased lymphocyte percentages (78.4±2.3% to 63.5±3.1%), increased neutrophil counts, and altered red blood cell indices across treatment groups. Body weight increased significantly in all treated groups compared to controls. Testicular weight showed significant increase in the highest dose group (Group D) compared to controls and Group B, while ovarian weights remained unchanged. Remarkably, testosterone and progesterone levels showed no significant alterations across all groups. Histopathological examination revealed preserved normal cellular architecture in both testicular and ovarian tissues across all treatment groups. Seminiferous tubules maintained normal morphology with healthy Sertoli cells and spermatogenic cells at various maturation stages, while ovarian follicles demonstrated normal development. The findings provide compelling evidence that Chrysophyllum albidum fruit extract preserves reproductive tissue integrity and hormonal homeostasis while producing systemic hematological changes. The maintenance of normal histoarchitecture in reproductive organs, coupled with stable hormonal profiles, suggests potential safety for reproductive health applications, supporting traditional medicinal claims. However, the observed hematological alterations warrant careful consideration for dosage optimization and monitoring protocols in clinical applications. Chrysophyllum albidum fruit extract may offer a promising natural approach to reproductive health management with preserved organ function and minimal hormonal disruption.