Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L., Iridaceae) on the testosterone level in the blood and sexual behaviour of male rats
Research article: Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L., Iridaceae) on the testosterone level in the blood and sexual behaviour of male rats
Authors: U.F. Hashimova*, Kh.F. Babayev, P.A. Shukurova, S.I. Gasanova
Academician Abdulla Garayev Institute of Physiology, Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, 78 Sharifzadeh Str., Baku AZ1100, Azerbaijan;
* For correspondence: ulduz.hashimova@science.az
Accepted for publication: 10 April 2020
Abstract: The aim of the present research was to study the effects of Azerbaijan-grown saffron Сrocus sativus L. Iridaceae on the testosterone level in the blood and sexual behaviour of normal male rats. The data obtained showed that saffron increased the blood testosterone level as compared to untreated controls, which did not receive saffron. Per os administration of saffron also led to marked stimulation of the proseptive and receptive components of the sexual behavior in male rats.
Keywords: Saffron extract, sex hormones, testosterone, sexual behaviour, male rats, phyto-geroprotector
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