Effects of eurycoma longifolia standardized extract on estradiol valerate-induced teratogenicity in female rats

Estradiol valerate, a synthetic steroidal estradiol is used to treat female reproductive disorders as well as contraception. Consumption of estradiol valerate may produce abortional and teratogenic effects. Possible effects of the standardized extract of Eurycoma longifolia, TAF 273, on foetal development in female rats exposed to estradiol valerate were therefore investigated. Pregnant female rats on day 12 of gestation were administered with a single subcutaneous injection of estradiol valerate (0.15 mg/kg). TAF 273 was administered orally at doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight from day 12 to day 19 of gestation followed by termination of pregnancy on day 21. A decreased the number of live foetuses with high number of post-implantation loss and early resorption were observed. Administration of 100 mg/kg TAF 273 resulted in high number of live foetuses but with decreased body weight and crown-rump length possibly due to competition for space for embryonic development and blood supply. Kyphosis, scoliosis and kinky tail following treatment with estradiol valerate were apparent. Eurycoma longifolia may have potential in ameliorating teratogenic effects of estradiol valerate by reducing external abnormalities in the rat foetuses and may have prospects in the treatment of female-linked disorders and complications