Background & Aims: Ruta Graveolens (RG) commonly called sodab has been known as a medicinal herb since ancient times.RG (Sodab) is traditionally used as contraceptive and occasionally for induction of abortion in humans.However, little is known about its anti-fertility property.This work aimed to study the anti-fertility properties of RG aqueous extract using histomorphometry method.

Materials & Methods: The study was performed on 24 female mice that were divided into two groups as control and RG.The control group received normal saline 0.2 ml and the RG group received 300 mg/kg aqueous extract of RG per day, orally for 14 days.On days 17 (week 1), 24 (week 2) and 31 (week 3) after treatment, Histomorphometric studies were conducted on the ovary tissue.The number of follicles and its diameters were measured.

Results: We found that RG extract reduced the number of mature follicles, and increased the number of immature follicles.The findings revealed that RG extract reduced follicle diameter in mice, when compared to the control group.

Conclusion: It was found that the aqueous extract of RG interfere with follicle development and reduced fertilizing ability in female mice.

SOURCE: URMIA MED J 2015: 26(6): 512 ISSN: 1027-3727