The Effect of Aqueous Extract of Phoenix Dactylifera Pollen Grain on Sexual Behavior of Male Rats

The Phoenix dactylifera date palm pollen (DPP) is used for curing male infertility and impotency in traditional medicine. However, the validity has not been scientifically tested. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of Phoenix dactylifera pollen on the sexual behavior of male rats. Sixty male rats were randomized into 6 groups (A-F). Group A received 0.2 ml of Normal Saline mixed with Dimethyl Sulphate (DMSO), while groups B-F were injected same volume containing 35, 70, 105, 140 and 350 mg/kg of DPP extract, respectively. Sexual behavioral parameters including mounting, intromission and ejaculation frequencies and latencies were recorded in male rats one hour after injection of extract by mating with a receptive female (1:1).The male serum testosterone and estradiol concentrations were also determined. All doses stimulated male sexual behavior. Extract significantly increased mount, ejaculation, intromission frequencies and ejaculation latency in comparison to controlled ones (p < 0.001). Mount and intromission latencies significantly reduced (p < 0.001). Maximum effect was observed at a dose of 140 mg/kg. This extract was found to enhance Testosterone, Estradiol and the orientation of males toward female ones by increasing mounting and ano-genital investigatory behavior. Our results revealed that the aqueous extract of Phoenix dactylifera pollen can be used as a sex enhancer and seems to cure male infertility. Also, our findings support the traditional use of this plant as acclaimed aphrodisiac and for the treatment of pre-ejaculation and impotency.