1.1 Introduction
Nutmeg also known as Myristica fragrans is a plant which germinates seeds, and the seeds are ground into powder. The tree which bears these seeds grows up to 10 – 20 m tall and is indigenous to India, Indonesia, and srilanka (Hayfaa et al., 2013). The extracts of the nutmeg is implicated in the stimulation of mounting behaviour in male mice, and also in significant increase in their mating performance (Ahmad et al., 2003). Nutmeg is the seed of the tree scientifically classified as Myristica fragrans. Nutmeg is widely used in cuisines around the world. It has numerous health benefits, which include its ability to relieve pain, soothe indigestion, improve cognitive function (Dx.doi, 2023); detoxify the body, boost skin quality, alleviate oral conditions, and reduce insomnia. Nutmeg strengthens the immune system, prevents leukemia, and improves blood circulation as well (NCBI, 2023).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Nutmeg is widely accepted as a flavouring agent. Nutmeg and its oleoresin are used in the preparation of meat products, sauces, baked foods, confectionaries, puddings, seasoning of meat and vegetables, to flavor milk dishes and punches. Medicinally nutmeg is known to be stimulants and has carminative properties (Lagouri et al., 1995). In pregnancy and lactation, traditionally nutmeg has been used as an abortificient; though this has largely been discounted, but remains a persistent cause of nutmeg intoxication in women (De Milto et al., 2005).
The active ingredient in nutmeg is called myristicine. Cytotoxic and apotoxic effects of myristicine have been reported such that cell viability was reduced by exposure to myristicine in a dose dependent manner (Lee et al., 2005). The testis – also called testicles are two oval-shaped organs in the male reproductive system. They are contained in sac of skin called the scrotum.
Structures within the tests are important for the production and storage of sperm until they are mature enough for ejaculation. The testes also produce a hormone called testosterone which is responsible for sex drive, fertility and development of muscle and bone mass. The blood testes barrier also helps to prevent some substances that may be considered injurious or toxic from destroying the parenchyma of the testis. It would therefore be worthwhile to examine the effects of oral administration of nutmeg on the histology of the testis, as well as its effects on hormone (Testosterone) thereby corroborating previous works done by other researchers (Olaleye et al., 2006), or disproving the toxic effects of nutmeg in this organ with the view of advising the consumers on the inherent dangers of excessive consumption of the spice.
The toxicity of nutmeg seeds at high doses has been reported, mainly due to myristicin oil and elemicin, causing tachycardia, nausea, vomiting, agitation, and hallucinations. However, these effects are related to the abuse of the spice and are not observed at usual low concentrations (Ehrenpreis et al., 2014). There are many studies on the beneficial effects of nutmeg seed and various nutmeg seed extracts. One of the most prominent biological activities of the nutmeg preparations is antibacterial. Nutmeg seed lignans exert antimicrobial activity on Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Shigella dysenteriae (Abourashed et al., 2016). Ethanol and acetone extracts of nutmeg crust have strong antibacterial activity against gram- positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (Smith-Palmer et al., 2002).
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the Testes and Hormonal Profile of Adult Male Albino Wistar Rats Following Oral Administration of Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg).
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that though nutmeg is used as spice in many food and confectionaries, and has so many nutritional and medicinal properties as well as its functions in many organs and systems of the human body, there is no enough literature regarding the effect of oral administration of nutmeg on the histology of the testis, as well as its effects on hormonal profile (Testosterone). Hence this research is carried out carefully to ascertain the effects of oral administration of nutmeg on the histology of the testis, as well as its effect on hormonal profile (Testosterone).
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to assess the Testes and Hormonal Profile of Adult Male Albino Wistar Rats Following Oral Administration of Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg). In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To ascertain the impact oral nutmeg supplementation has on the adult male albino Wistar rat's serum testosterone level in a hormonal assay;
- To determine the effect of oral Administration of Nutmeg on the histology of the testis of adult male albino Wistar rat; and
- To identify the factors that affect the body weight of mature male albino Wistar rats after nutmeg administration through oral consumption.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- Are there factors that affect the body weight of mature male albino Wistar rats after nutmeg administration through oral consumption?
- What is the effect of oral Administration of Nutmeg on the histology of the testis of adult male albino Wistar rat?
- What is the impact oral nutmeg supplementation has on the adult male albino Wistar rat's serum testosterone level in a hormonal assay?
1.6 Significance of Study
The relevance of this research will provide scientific knowledge to health care providers and the public on the possible adverse effect of nutmeg as a spice on the testis, body weight and hormonal assay (Serum testosterone). It will also help to educate the public that nutmeg though normally consume as a spice could pose health risk to consumers especially if it usage is abuse.
This study will be of immense benefit to other researchers who intend to know more on this study and can also be used by non-researchers to build more on their research work. This study contributes to knowledge and could serve as a guide for other study.
1.7 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the Histological Assessment of the Testes and Hormonal Profile of Adult Male Albino Wistar Rats Following Oral Administration of Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg).
1.8 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Research material: availability of research material is a major setback to the scope of the study.
- Frequent power failure: This made the researcher append more money on fuel to ensure sustainable power.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
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