Abstract
BACKGROUND: Dopaminergic neurotransmission is critical to managing a variety of physiological activities, including sexual behavior. Erectile dysfunction is frequently related to low dopamine levels and hyperglycemia, both of which can be alleviated by Mucuna pruriens, a natural source of levodopa and other bioactive compounds. The existing hypothesis depicts that decreased dopaminergic neurotransmission and hyperglycemia lead to erectile dysfunction. OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of this study was to establish the hypoglycemic action and sexual stimulatory effects of Mucuna pruriens in rodents. The secondary objective was to evaluate the effect on general rodent behavior, which can validate the safety profile of Mucuna pruriens for clinical use. METHODS: Standardized Mucuna pruriens extract was given orally to male rodents for a predetermined amount of time. Blood samples were withdrawn from the male rats to measure the glucose levels at predetermined intervals. During mating trials, sexual activity metrics such as mount frequency and delay, intromission frequency, and ejaculation frequency were recorded. Standard open-field and exploratory behavior tests were used to track general behavior and evaluate any unfavorable or unusual changes. RESULTS: Mucuna pruriens significantly decreased blood glucose levels and increased male sexual activity and behaviors in rodents (mount frequency and latency, intromission frequency, and ejaculation frequency). CONCLUSION: Thus, Mucuna pruriens can be the alternative natural bioactive to prevent and treat sexual dysfunction.