Sustained hyperglycaemia is considered as a major cause of sexual and erectile dysfunction
in human population [1]. Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. is considered as a sexual tonic in Ayurvedic system of medicine with potent
antioxidant and adaptogenic properties [2]. The aqueous extract of the herb was evaluated
for its effectiveness against streptozotocin induced hyperglycaemic stress and subsequent
sexual dysfunction due to hyperglycaemia in male rats. The body and organ weights
of the animals were recorded. Behavioural analysis of rats was undertaken to observe
the effect on mount, ejaculation, intromission (latencies and frequencies), and hesitation
time (p<0.05). This deleterious effect of sustained hyperglycaemia and associated
stress was prominently ameliorated in animals treated with aqueous extract of C. orchioides. Hyperglycaemia also resulted in a reduction of the serum testosterone levels, in vivo sperm count, seminal fructose content, and serum testosterone level which was ameliorated
by C. orchioides (p<0.05). Antioxidant and anabolic activities of the extract under investigation
could be a major attribute in preserving the sexual functions in hyperglycaemic male
rats. The study validates the use of C. orchioides in traditional medicine for curing diabetes induced sexual dysfunction and compromised
sexual potency [3].
Acknowledgements: University Grants Commission, New Delhi
References: 1. Chauhan, N.S. et al. (2007) Fitoterapia: 530–534.
2. Thakur M. et al. (2009) Archives of Sexual Behavior: 1009–1014.
3. Lakshmi V et al. (2003)J Ethnopharmacol: 181–184.
