Effect of benzene extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves on cauda epididymis of albino rats.

In the present study, an attempt has been made to assess the effect of benzene extract of Ocimum sanctum leaves on ultrastructural changes in epithelial cells of the cauda epididymis and fertility of male albino rats. Wistar strain male albino rats were orally administered 250 mg/kg body weight of O. sanctum leaves followed by maintaining suitable controls for 48 days. The results indicate, in cauda epididymis, a significant reduction in epithelial height and nuclei diameter of epithelial cells. Cells showed vacuolization exhibiting of signs of degeneration. An ultra study revealed that, in general, the cauda epididymis was affected and in particular, the principal, clear and basal cells were highly disturbed. Further, the size of lipid droplets, mitochondria, Golgi complex, endoplasmic reticulum decreased, with an accumulation of lysosomal bodies. The fertility performance test showed no implantation in female rats mated with O. sanctum-treated male rats. The results suggest a probable dwindling of an androgen status/direct effect on the above observations.