Antiovulatory and Estrogenic Activity of Leaves of Datura stramonium Linn. in Female Albino Rats

The effect of petroleum ether (60-80°C), ethanol and aqueous extracts of Datura stramonium Linn. leaves on the estrous cycle were studied and identify the estrogenic activity of active ethanol extract in female albino rats. After the oral acute toxicity study, plant extracts were administered at two dose levels: 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. Ethanol extract at a dose of 200 mg/kg has increased the duration of the estrous cycle by directly increasing the diestrous phase, while the 400 mg/kg dose has significantly ( P < 0.01) reduced the proestrous phase and on the other hand increased the duration of the diestrous phase. Histological studies of the uterus were carried out to confirm their estrogenic activity of treatment. The ethanol extract showed significant estrogenic and antiestrogenic activity. All findings suggest that the antifertility activity of extract could be possibly through the changes in the prolonged estrous cycle and antiestrogenic activity. Hence the extract possesses antifertility activity without adverse toxicity in female rats.