A Clinical Study On The Role Of Shatavari Ghrita In Hypo Osmotic Swelling

Abstract

Background: Infertility is typically defined as the failure to conceive following twelve months of unprotected intercourse. It has been identified long ago by Ayurveda maintaining unique branch called Vajeekarana . Prevalence of infertility in general population is 15 20%. Male factor is responsible for 20 40%. The routine semen analysis is the prime tool in the diagnosis of male infertility. As this provides no insights into the functional potential of the spermatozoon, seminal analysis needs to be complemented with sperm functional assay. HOS is the better sperm function test to reveal the viability of the spermatozoa by checking the membrane intactness. In Ayurveda many herbal and herbo-mineral preparations have been mentioned for the successful treatment of infertility. Shatavari ghrita will enhance the quality of Retas i.e seminal fluid and in turn the spermatozoa with its membrane. Sperm membrane defect is usually considered as a result of oxidation and the Shatavari is proved as an antioxidant (Rasayana properties) by many previous studies. Objectives: To make a comprehensive clinical study on the role of Shatavari Ghrita in Hypo Osmotic Swelling test (HOST). Methodology: It is a single group clinical study of 10 weeks with pretest and post test design. Include male subjects of age group between 20 45 yrs having HOS test less than 70%. Shatavari ghrita was given for 4 weeks, followed by placebo capsules for 6 weeks. Results were assessed at BT, FU and AT. Results: Statistical analysis revealed the mean score of HOS, 43.46±15.70 before the treatment was increased to 61.56±10.89 after AT (After 4 weeks of treatment with trial drug) and 61.48±11.18 after FU (After 10 weeks of treatment with trial drug and placebo). This change that occurred with the treatment is statistically significant (P lt0.05). In multiple comparison test, BT vs. AT and BT vs. FU shown significant change where as the AT vs. FU is insignificant. Conclusion: Shatavari ghrita administered in a dose of 15 ml bid, for 4 weeks increased the HOS percentage significantly indicating the improvement in the intactness of the sperm membrane. The result obtained after 4 weeks with shatavari ghrita was almost consistent for next 6 weeks with placebo treatment. newline