Effect of Extracts of the Aerial Parts and Roots from Four Ferulago Species on Erectile Dysfunction in Rats with Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes
Abstract
Objectives: The extracts from Ferulago species are traditionally used as aphrodisiacs in Turkey. This study aimed to evaluate, both in vivo and in vitro, the relaxant effects of extracts from four Ferulago species on the corpus cavernosum (CC).
Materials and Methods: Thirty adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into control and diabetic groups. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 40 mg/kg streptozotocin. Erectile responses were measured in vivo by stimulating the cavernosal nerves, both before and after intracavernosal injection of the extracts. Data were recorded as intracavernosal pressure (ICP)/mean arterial pressure and total ICP. The relaxant and contractile responses of CC strips were analyzed in the presence or absence of the extracts.
Results: The extracts showed activity in both control and diabetic rats. The maximum relaxation induced by the extracts, particularly the methanol extract of Ferulago bracteata root (98.30±2.6%), was significantly reduced when incubated with L-NAME (44.8±1.8%). The soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ inhibited 77% of the extract-induced maximum relaxation in the CC of control rats.
Conclusion: The extracts from these Ferulago species demonstrate potential for use in treating erectile dysfunction, offering a possible herbal alternative to synthetic medications.