Effects of Achillea Millifolium extract consumption by pregnant mice on pregnancy outcome and reproductive system of their female off spring

Abstract

Background: Achillea millefolium (Yarrow) is medicinal plant that is traditionally used against inflammatory and spasmodic gastrointestinal compliant.

Objective: To study the effect of the consumption of Achillea extract by pregnant mice on pregnancy out come and on the reproductive system of the female off spring.

Materials & Methods: 70 adult pregnant female mice at age of 40-45 days were used in this study. These 70 mice were divided equally into two groups: experimental group (G1) and control group (G2). The experimental group was given 1mg/kg body weight/1ml of D.W of Achillea millefolium extract orally during 3 weeks of pregnancy, while the control group was given 1ml of D.W orally alone and for the same period.

    After delivery the number and weight of the litters were recorded. 40 days after delivery, the weight of the female reproductive system was estimated, histological sections were done for the ovaries and oviducts, their diameters were measured, in addition serum was taken from these mice and measurement of FSH, LH and E₂ was done for both groups.       

Results: The results of the experimental group showed highly significant decrease in litter size and significant decrease their weight. In addition young females born from treated mothers showed significant decrease in the weight of reproductive system, diameter of ovaries and diameter of oviducts. Also, significant decrease was noticed in the level of FSH, LH and Estradiol level in the experimental group.

Conclusion: Consuming of Achillea millifolium extract during pregnancy will produce bad effect on the pregnancy out come in addition to bad effect on the reproductive system of the female offspring.