The effect of (Anethum graveolens) seed alcoholic extract on spermatogenesis in male wistar rats

Anethum graveolens(Dill) is a member of the Apiaceae family. As a folk remedy, dill seeds have been used to increase mother’s milk production. While high doses of dill has been mentioned to weaken sexual and decreases spermatogenesis in males.In this study the effects of Anethum graveolens seeds alcoholic extracts on the reproductive system of adult male rats, was investigated.24 Wistar rats, weighting 210-230 gr, divided into 3 groups of control, experimental 1 and experimental 2. Experimental groups were injected with 50 mg/rat and 100 mg/rat of alcoholic extracts of dill seeds for 16 days. The control group received normal saline for the same period. At the 16th day the reproductive organs were separated and weighted. Histological changes was studied in testes among experimental and control groups. The results were evaluated by using one way Anova and Tukey test.The results indicated significant decrease of weight and volume of testis. Histological studies showed significant effects such as decreased number of spermatogonium, spermatocyte and spermatid. Sperm number was decreased in group that received 50 mg/rat of A.g seed alcoholic extract. Seminiferous tubule diameter was decreased in experimental groups.