Consumption of Potash Adversely affects Sperm Quality and Sex Hormones of Male Wistar Rats

Background: Potash consumption is very common in Nigeria especially in the rural communities. It is often used as food additives in different doses without any regard for its toxicity.

Aim: This study sought to evaluate the effect of potash on the sperm quality and reproductive hormones in male Wistar rats.

Methodology: Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups of six each. Animals in group A were administered distilled water while those in groups B, C, D and E were administered 250, 500, 750 and 1000 mg/kg body weight of potash for 28-days via oral route of administration. At the end of the treatment period, blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture. Sperm quality and sex hormones were evaluated using standard methods.

Results: The results of this present study showed a significant (p<0.05) increase in the concentration of serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) at 500, 750 and 1000 mg/kg in a dose-dependent manner when compared with the control group. Administration of potash significantly reduced (p<0.05) the concentration of serum Luteinizing hormone (LH) in all the treatment groups when compared with the control group. There was a significant reduction (p<0.05) in the concentration of serum testosterone and seminal pH sequel to the administration of potash at 500, 750 and 1000 mg/kg body weight when compared with the control group. Administration of potash significantly reduced (p<0.05) the sperm count, motility and morphology of healthy male Wistar rats in all the treatment groups in a dose-dependent manner when compared with the control group.

Conclusion: The results of this study showed that potash has the propensity to compromise sperm quality and sex hormones in male Wistar rats. This does not automatically translate to such effect on humans. It is recommended to be studied in future studies before being investigated in clinical trials.