EXAMINING THE EFFECTS OF IKMO (PIPER BETLE LINN.) ON THE THYROXINE LEVEL OF FEMALE ALBINO RATS AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO INFERTILITY AND HYPERPROLACTINEMIA

Abstract

The use of plants as a natural contraceptive is now a trend in populous countries. One of the most popular natural contraceptive today is the Piper betle. Thyroid glands and hormones play a significant role in the development and function of the reproductive system. There are reports stating that thyroxine level is inversely correlated with the level of prolactin. Similarly, estrogen level is positively correlated with the level of prolactin which is linked with a condition characterized by the deficiency or excess of the hormone: prolactin. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of Piper betle as a natural contraceptive on the level of thyroxine of rats. For this purpose, nine female albino rats were divided into three groups; control samples that were administered with standard commercial pellet and water; experimental group 1 that was administered with 0.5ml of Piper betle extract and experimental group 2 that was administered with 1 ml of Piper betle extract for two weeks. Results showed that thyroxine level varies among groups and no statistical differences were reported. These findings supported other studies showing the correlation among thyroxine, prolactin, and estrogen. It also suggests that Piper betle is an effective and a safe natural contraceptive. In addition, the development of possible side effects is minimal.