Abstract
BACKGROUND: Fenugreek is a medicinal plant widely used in food and traditional medicine in several countries, including Libya. AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of boiled aqueous fenugreek seed extract on sperm parameters, testicular histology, and embryo morphology in male mice. METHOD: Adult male mice were randomly divided into three groups (n = 6 per group). The control group received distilled water orally, whereas the treatment groups received boiled fenugreek seed extract at doses of 1,000 and 2,000 mg/kg body weight for 21 consecutive days. After treatment, body and testis weights were recorded, and serum testosterone levels, sperm motility, and morphology were evaluated. Testicular histology was examined, and embryo morphology was assessed by mating treated males with untreated females. RESULTS: A significant decrease in body weight was observed in the 1,000 mg/kg treated group. However, no significant differences in testis weight, testosterone levels, sperm motility, or morphology were detected between the treated and control groups. Histological examination revealed no pathological changes in the testicular tissues. In addition, embryos sired by treated males showed no external abnormalities or significant differences in body or tail length compared with controls. CONCLUSION: Boiled aqueous fenugreek seed extract at doses of 1,000 and 2,000 mg/kg did not exert adverse effects on male reproductive parameters or embryo morphology. Further studies are recommended to evaluate its safety on other body organs and its potential therapeutic applications.