Effect of Dooshivishari Agada over MSG-induced reproductive toxicity w.s.r. ovary and follicle count

INTRODUCTION: Monosodium glutamate (MSG), an extensively used flavor enhancer, produces degenerative changes in cell and causes neural death which cause imbalance in endocrine system and disturb the body system. While taking consideration of its potency and affinity, it falls under the category of Dooshi Visha, which leads to various diseases among which Kshapayet Shukram is one and can be correlated with disturbance in reproductive system which may be endocrinological or related to gametes. Dooshivishari Agada (DVA) is a herbomineral formulation which is mentioned for the treatment of Dooshi Visha. AIM: The aim is to evaluate the efficacy of DVA in MSG-induced female reproductive toxicity in Wistar rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: DVA was prepared and analyzed for preliminary physicochemical, organic and inorganic tests. Twenty-four rats were divided into four groups. Up to 14 days, MSG (0.20g/kg) was given to all groups except control group. From days 15 to 42, DVA (216mg/200g) was given to the third group and in the fourth group no intervention was given to evaluate auto recovery. The second group was considered as disease control. At the end, Follicle-stimu`lating hormone test and histopathology of ovary were done. RESULTS: There was a significant increase in primary follicle count and decrease in atretic follicle count in DVA group. Secondary follicle count, tertiary follicle count and Graafian follicle count were increased in DVA group but the increase was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: MSG mainly acts as a neurotoxic component by oxidative stress. Mostly, the ingredients of DVA have anti-oxidant properties, which counteract the oxidative stress caused by MSG in cell. Many ingredients such as Pippali, Tagara and Kushtha have neuroprotective property which corrects the neurodegeneration and balances the endocrine system.