A common Nigerian cooking herb known as scent leaf may hold promise for improving male fertility by supporting both reproductive health and the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, according to a new scientific review.

The review, published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medical Research, examined available research on Ocimum gratissimum, popularly known as scent leaf in Nigeria, and its possible role in improving sperm quality, hormone production, and overall male reproductive health.

Researchers from the Federal University Otuoke, Bayelsa State, said growing evidence suggests the medicinal plant may benefit male fertility through what scientists now describe as the gut-testicular axis, the biological communication between the gut and the testes.

Male infertility is a major health challenge worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation, male-related factors contribute to about half of all infertility cases. Common causes include low sperm count, poor sperm movement, hormonal problems, infections, poor diet, obesity, smoking, alcohol use, environmental pollution, and exposure to toxic chemicals.

Although assisted reproductive technologies such as In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) have helped many couples, these treatments remain expensive and inaccessible for many families. This has increased interest in affordable, plant-based therapies that have long been used in traditional medicine.

Scent leaf is one of Nigeria’s most widely used medicinal herbs. It is known as Efirin among the Yoruba, Nchanwu by the Igbo, and Daidoya among the Hausa.

For generations, the leaves have been used to treat stomach problems, diarrhoea, cough, fever, and infections. In many communities, the herb is also traditionally believed to improve sexual health and fertility.

The researchers explained that scent leaf contains several natural compounds, including eugenol, thymol, quercetin, and rutin. These substances possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties that may protect the reproductive system from damage.

Oxidative stress, an imbalance between harmful free radicals and the body’s natural defence system, is one of the leading causes of poor sperm quality. Excessive oxidative stress can damage sperm cells, reduce their movement, and interfere with testosterone production.

According to the review, studies conducted mainly in laboratory animals show that extracts of scent leaf improved sperm count, sperm movement, and sperm structure while also increasing testosterone levels and reducing oxidative stress in the testes.

The researchers said these findings suggest that the herb may help create healthier conditions for sperm production.

Beyond its direct effects on the reproductive organs, the review highlighted growing evidence that the gut plays an important role in male fertility.

Scientists now know that trillions of beneficial bacteria living in the intestines help regulate immunity, inflammation, nutrient absorption, and hormone production. Together, these microorganisms form what is known as the gut microbiome.

When this microbial balance is disrupted, a condition known as gut dysbiosis results, and it may trigger chronic inflammation, interfere with hormone production, and reduce sperm quality.

Although assisted reproductive technologies have helped many couples conceive, they remain expensive and inaccessible for many people, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

The review suggests that scent leaf’s antimicrobial properties may help suppress harmful bacteria while encouraging the growth of beneficial microbes, leading to a healthier gut environment.

A healthier gut could improve the absorption of nutrients needed for sperm production, reduce inflammation throughout the body, and support the production of testosterone.

The researchers also declared that beneficial gut bacteria produce substances known as short-chain fatty acids, which help regulate inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and may support healthy testicular function.

Although these findings are encouraging, the researchers cautioned that most of the available evidence comes from animal studies and laboratory experiments.

They stressed that there is still no strong clinical evidence proving that scent leaf can improve fertility in men.

They recommended well-designed human clinical trials to determine the herb’s safety, effective dosage, and long-term benefits before it can be recommended as a treatment for male infertility.

The researchers also called for more studies to understand exactly how scent leaf changes the gut microbiome and how those changes influence sperm production and reproductive hormones.

They concluded that scent leaf could become an affordable natural therapy for improving male fertility, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to fertility treatment remains limited if future clinical studies confirm the early findings.

Several Nigerian medicinal plants and spices have been studied for their potential effects on male fertility. Most findings come from laboratory and animal studies, although the strength of evidence varies considerably.

Ginger, garlic, moringa, bitter kola, date palm, and African walnut are some of these medicinal spices and food items studied for male reproductive health. Research suggested that they may increase sperm count, improve sperm motility, raise testosterone, reduce stress-related infertility, and improve blood circulation to reproductive organs.

Despite the encouraging findings, most evidence for these plants comes from laboratory and animal research. Human clinical trials remain limited; as such, the herbal remedies should not replace medical evaluation for infertility.

For Advert, Event Coverage/Press Conference Invite, Story/Article Publication & Other Media Services
Contact Us On WhatsApp
Send Email To: citizennewsng@gmail.com
Visit Citizen NewsNG To Read More Latest And Interesting News Across Nigeria And The World