2014, Pages 445–492
15 – Toxicity and Beneficial Effects of Some African Plants on the Reproductive System
The
normal functioning of the reproductive systems of males and females is
very important not only for procreation (reproduction) but also for
sexual fulfillment of both partners. The reproductive system, however,
is exposed to numerous chemicals such as drugs or medicinal plants. This
array of herbs may be beneficial or toxic to the reproductive system.
This review focuses on the effects of some African medicinal plants on
major functions of the reproductive system such as sexual behavior,
spermatogenesis, contraceptives, contraception, abortion, ovulation, and
fertility of experimental animals. The source of information has been
obtained largely from peer-reviewed literature and ethnobotanical survey
of some herb sellers and herbalists. The review suggests that medicinal
plants could either be beneficial (enhancing the reproductive process)
or toxic (adversely hindering the normal functioning of the organs).
This review points to the fact that the continent of Africa is
abundantly blessed with a wide array of medicinal plants which are
efficacious against several of these diseases afflicting the human
population. The list of medicinal plants considered here is by no means
exhaustive, and concerted efforts should be geared toward harnessing
herbs that have been scientifically validated for their acclaimed uses,
identifying and isolating their bioactive agent(s) and formulating into
useful drugs. The potentially toxic herbs also can be supplemented with
chemical agents that will reduce their adverse effects.
Keywords
- Medicinal plants;
- Reproductive system;
- Fertility;
- Aphrodisiac;
- Abortifacient;
- Contraception;
- Conception;
- Spermatogenesis;
- Ovulation
