Effects of the Ayurvedic Formulation Swarna Sindhura on Serum Gonadotropins and Testosterone Levels in Male Sprague-Dawley Rats

Abstract

Swarna Sindhura (SRNm) is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation used in the management of hypertension, particularly in rural populations in the Indian subcontinent. Despite its extensive use, the endocrine effects of SRNm still remain unknown due to a lack of studies. This study examined the effect of SRNm administration on steroid and gonadotropin hormone profiles in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Animals received oral SRNm at a dose of 40 mg/kg daily for 28 days, whereas control rats received normal food and water. Serum concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), total testosterone, progesterone, 17{beta}-estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were quantified and statistically analyzed to understand the effects of SRNm. SRNm treatment elicited a statistically significant elevation in serum progesterone, suggesting enhanced steroidogenic activity potentially relevant to its traditional antihypertensive use. DHEA-S and testosterone are slightly decreased, indicating a subtle modulatory influence on androgen biosynthesis without compromising basal production. Gonadotropin analysis revealed that LH levels have decreased, while FSH levels have slightly increased, but the change is non-significant. These findings show that SRNm had a selective effect on progesterone synthesis, while maintaining overall hormonal homeostasis. Further detailed studies are essentially needed to clarify its endocrine effects and therapeutic potential.