Effect of Methanolic Extract of Abrus precatorius Seeds on Fertility of Female Rats

Abstract

This study examines the post-coital contraceptive potential of a methanolic extract of Abrus precatorius seeds using albino rats. The major constituent of this extract was found to be abrin, an amino acid derivative (68 % by weight). Furthermore, the extract had no steroidal constituents. Oral administration of the extract using various dose and time -regimens (single dose of 150mg Ikg on day I of pregnancy; twice daily dose of 150mglkg on day 1 of pregnancy; a single dose of 300mglkg, on day 1 of pregnancy; and 300mglkg dose from day 1-7 of pregnancy) did not suppress fertility significantly. However, a tendency towards foetal aggregation was evident. It is concluded that the polar fractions of this seed (presumably abrin), has very little potential as a post-coital contraceptive agent.