A new study conducted by an Australian university has discovered a natural ingredient in a plant that can act as a male contraceptive.
According to research from Monash University in Parkville, nettle extract inhibits sperm motility.
According to the researchers, it works, at least for now in mice.
Published by the scientific journal Blows One, Dr. The conclusion of a study by Saab Ventura: “In mouse mating studies, nettle leaf extract (50 mg po per day) reduced male fertility by 53%”.
The aim of this research is to try to find a natural alternative to hormonal contraceptives, and this plant, with its stiff hairs that secrete an irritating liquid when touched, may be the key.
The active ingredient of the plant attacks the protein of the sperm.
However, there is still a lot of research to be done before we can conclude that nettle is the origin of a male contraceptive.
“Once isolated and identified, it could potentially be a lead compound for the development of ‘male contraception’, an oral drug used in combination with tamsulosin (a drug commonly used to treat enlarged prostates), the researchers say.
Study leader Dr Ventura said the results would have a massive impact on the contraceptive industry.
“Unfortunately, there is a widespread perception that birth control is more of a women’s issue than a men’s issue. Yet research shows that most men are willing to use birth control if they are given the opportunity to do so.
