Ethonalic leaf extract of Andrographis paniculata-induced oxidative stress in the testis and epididymis of Male Wistar Rats

Andrographis paniculata has been used as a traditional medicine and a predominant constituent in 26 Ayurvedic formulations over the last two decades. Its impact on the male fertility is a controversial from the past few years. In the present study we have investigated the antioxidant enzyme status and the indices of lipid peroxidation in the testis and epididymis of male wistar rats. Male wistar rats were exposed to 20, 200 and 1000mg/kg body weight of ethanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata (high dose) orally for 65 days daily. Control rats received normal saline only. Tissues were washed, homogenized and the levels of super oxide dismutatse, catalase and lipid peroxidation was determined. Results showed an increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation and decrease in the levels of super oxide dismutase and catalase in the testis and epididymis.