APHRODISIAC POTENTIALS OF CALOTROPIS PROCERA LEAVES METHANOL EXTRACT ON MALE ALBINO RAT

ABSTRACT Sexual dysfunction is a common health challenge that affects male reproductive performance and quality of life, often necessitating the search for safe and effective therapeutic agents. Medicinal plants have gained increasing attention as potential aphrodisiacs due to their phytoconstituents and traditional applications. This study evaluated the aphrodisiac potentials of Calotropis procera leaves methanol extract in male albino rats. Thirty adult male rats were divided into groups and administered graded doses of the extract, alongside distilled water (negative control) and sildenafil citrate (positive control). Sexual behavior parameters including mounting frequency, intromission frequency, ejaculation latency, post-ejaculatory interval, and mating performance were assessed. Phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids, which are bioactive compounds associated with reproductive enhancement. The extract significantly (p < 0.05) improved mounting and intromission frequencies while reducing post-ejaculatory intervals compared to control. At higher doses, the aphrodisiac activity of the extract was comparable to sildenafil citrate, indicating dose-dependent efficacy. These findings suggest that Calotropis procera leaves methanol extract possesses promising aphrodisiac activity, potentially mediated through its rich phytochemical profile, and may serve as a natural alternative for the management of male sexual dysfunction. Further studies are recommended to isolate the bioactive compounds and elucidate their mechanisms of action.