Effect of Coconut Water (cocos Nucifera L.) on Some Reproductive Hormones and Oxidative Stress Markers in Female Wistar Rats.

Coconut water, derived from Cocos nucifera L., is known for its nutritional and antioxidant properties, yet its impact on reproductive health is not fully understood. This study evaluated the effects of coconut water on reproductive hormones and oxidative stress markers in female Wistar rats. Thirty rats were divided into six groups (n=5 per group) and treated for 28 days as follows: Group I (control) received 1 ml distilled water, Group II received 0.2 ml coconut water, Group III received 0.4 ml coconut water, Group IV received 0.2 ml coconut water + 50 ml cimetidine, Group V received 0.4 ml coconut water + 50 ml cimetidine, and Group VI received 50 ml cimetidine. Hormonal assays showed significant intergroup differences. Group II had the highest FSH levels (2.04 ± 0.90 mU/ml), while Group VI exhibited the lowest estrogen levels (48.80 ± 8.76 pg/ml), indicating potential ovarian insufficiency. Progesterone levels peaked in Group IV (9.46 ± 1.12 ng/ml) and were lowest in Group VI (6.50 ± 0.85 ng/ml), reflecting luteal phase activity variations. Oxidative stress analysis revealed increased malondialdehyde (MDA) in Group III (0.60 ± 0.05 µmol/ml), indicating heightened lipid peroxidation, alongside reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, suggesting impaired antioxidative defenses. These findings suggest that coconut water modulates reproductive hormones and oxidative stress markers, with potential benefits for fertility. However, increased oxidative stress in higher doses warrants caution and dose optimization. Further studies are needed to identify the bioactive compounds responsible for these effects and assess long-term implications for reproductive health.