Effect of Tribulus Terrestris Extract on male mice with Cyclophosphamide

Abstract

Background: This study explores the protective effect of Tribulus terrestris, a well-known medicinal plant traditionally used to enhance physical strength and reproductive health, against liver and reproductive damage caused by Cyclophosphamide, a chemotherapeutic agent. Method: In the experiment, male albino mice were divided into four groups. The first group (control) received only distilled water. The second group was injected with Cyclophosphamide alone. The third group received only the Tribulus terrestris extract, while the fourth group received Cyclophosphamide followed by treatment with the plant extract for 14 days. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected to measure liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP) and testosterone levels. Histological examination of liver and testis tissues was also performed. Results: The results showed that the group treated only with Cyclophosphamide had significantly high levels of liver enzymes, indicating liver damage, along with a sharp drop in testosterone levels, reflecting reproductive toxicity. In contrast, the group treated with Tribulus terrestris alone showed normal enzyme levels and healthy testosterone values, indicating the safety of the plant and its potential benefits. Most importantly, the group that received both Cyclophosphamide and the plant extract showed notable improvement. Although the levels were not fully restored to normal, liver enzyme levels decreased, and testosterone levels increased compared to the Cyclophosphamide-only group, suggesting that the plant extract provided partial protection against the drug's harmful effects. Conclusion: Tribulus terrestris extract demonstrated promising hepatoprotective and fertility-supporting properties in this experimental model. It could potentially be used as a natural supplement to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy drugs like Cyclophosphamide.