Darlington N Onyejike^{1, 2} , Ifeoma M Onyejike¹, Dominic C Ejiofor³, Chinaechelum J Izuegbunam¹, Ifechukwu J Obiesie¹, Albert T Nwamaradi⁴, Ambrose E Agulanna¹

Abstract

Purpose: To study the impact of Odogwu Bitters and Goko Cleanser on testicular morphology, sperm characteristics, and hormonal balance in adult male Wistar rats. Methods: Acute toxicity assessment (LD??) was carried out for both formulations. Fifty male Wistar rats were then randomly divided into ten groups of five each. Groups B – D were administered Odogwu Bitters at 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 mL, respectively. Groups E – G received Goko Cleanser at 0.2, 0.5, and 0.9 mL, respectively. Groups H – J were treated with combinations: H (0.2 mL Odogwu Bitters + 0.2 mL Goko Cleanser), I (0.4 mL Odogwu Bitters + 0.5 mL Goko Cleanser), and J (0.8 mL Odogwu Bitters + 0.9 mL Goko Cleanser). All treatments were administered orally, twice daily for six consecutive weeks. At the end, animals were sacrificed via overdose of CO2 followed by testicular histology, semen analysis, and hormonal assays for testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Results: Histological analysis revealed no significant structural damage. However, sperm morphology was significantly altered in low-dose Goko Cleanser group (p = 0.012), and sperm count significantly reduced in high-dose Odogwu Bitters group (p = 0.037). Hormonal assays showed significant increases in testosterone and FSH levels across groups (p < 0.05) in comparison with control. These findings demonstrate that Odogwu Bitters and Goko Cleanser impair male reproductive function following sub-chronic exposure, as evidenced by reduced sperm count, altered morphology, and elevated reproductive hormones. Conclusion: While no histological damage was observed in Wistar rats, the functional disruptions suggest possible endocrine-related effects. These outcomes raise concern over the reproductive safety of these formulations and highlight the need for further toxicological studies to determine their long-term systemic impact.