Inhibition of human sperm motility by specific herbs used in alternative medicine

Purpose: Our purpose was to analyze sperm motility parameters in the presen ce of herbs. Methods: Washed sperm were incubated in either saw-palmetto (Serenoa repens , Permixon Sabal serrulatum), echinacea purpura, ginkgo biloba, St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), or control medium. Parameters were measured on a Hamilton-Thorn analyzed after 1, 4, 24, and 48 hr or 37 degrees C. Results: Sperm motility was inhibited at the high concentration (0.6 mg/mL) of Sr. John's wort. Curvilinear velocities and hear cross frequencies also decreassed, but not hyperactivation. High-concentration saw-palmetto, echi nacea, or ginkgo inhibited motility at 24 and 48 hr Conclusions: A potent inhibition of sperm motility was seen in St. John's w ort unrelated to changes in pH. Furthermore, sperm viability was compromise d in St. John's wort, suggesting a spermicidal effect. Metabolic changes we re observed in saw-palmetto-treated sperm. High-concentration echinacea pur pura interfered,vith sperm enzymes. Ginkgo did not have an antioxidant effe ct on sperm motility.