Consumption of Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) Water Improved Fertility Parameters in Male Wistar Rats
Augustine I. Airaodion
*
Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
John A. Ekenjoku
Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
Kenneth O. Ngwogu
Department of Pathology, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
Ada C. Ngwogu
Department of Microbiology, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: The need for fertility stimulation in men and women cannot be overemphasized especially when a marriage is childless in some communities in Nigeria. While chemical methods for fertility stimulation may have some side effects and are not readily available, remedy from natural sources can be used.
Aim: This present study is aimed to evaluate the effect of coconut water on fertility in male Wistar rats.
Materials and Methods: Coconuts of about 8 months old were harvested from Apata area of Ibadan in Oyo State, Nigeria. The coconuts were dehusked, broken carefully and the liquid endosperm was collected and preserved in the refrigerator. Thirty male Wistar rats weighing between 180 and 200 g were used for the experiment. They were acclimatized for 7 days during which they were fed ad libitum with standard feed and drinking water. They were randomly divided into 6 groups of 5 rats each. Animals in groups A, B and C were administered normal saline for 10, 20 and 30 days respectively via oral route. Those in groups D, E and F were similarly treated (for 10, 20 and 30 days respectively via oral route) but with 3 mL of undiluted coconut water. At the end of treatment, the animals were sacrificed by the cervical dislocation. The internal organs were exposed. Testes and cauda epididymis were removed and kept in sterilized watched glass. Male fertility parameters were determined using standard methods.
Results: Coconut water caused increased sperm count and sperm motility while mortality and abnormality of spermatozoa decreased significantly after 10, 20 and 30 days of treatment respectively. However, coconut water had no significant difference on seminal pH at P<0.05.
Conclusion: The results of this present study showed that coconut water increased fertility in male Wistar rats. Men with fertility challenges are encouraged to consume coconut water as often as possible.
Keywords: Coconut water, sperm count, sperm motility, sperm mortality, sperm abnormality, seminal pH.