Contraceptive potential of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Linn.) Original paper

What was reviewed?

This review article provides a detailed update on the contraceptive potential of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Linn.), a widely cultivated ornamental shrub belonging to the Malvaceae family. The article focuses on the pharmacological effects of the plant’s extracts—primarily from flowers, leaves, stems, and roots—with an emphasis on their antifertility properties in both male and female animal models. It consolidates experimental findings on the antiovulatory, antiimplantation, androgenic, and antispermatogenic activities of various extracts and highlights the mechanisms by which H. rosa-sinensis interferes with reproductive processes. The review also discusses traditional medicinal uses of the plant in reproductive health and outlines the need for further research to develop standardized herbal contraceptives.

Who was reviewed?

The review draws on numerous preclinical studies conducted mostly on albino rats and mice, with extracts tested at various doses and routes of administration. Both male and female animals were used to assess the reproductive effects, including spermatogenesis suppression in males and estrous cycle disruption or implantation inhibition in females. Some studies also evaluated effects on reproductive organ weights, hormone levels, and histopathology. Limited clinical data, mainly from small trials or ethnomedical records, were referenced regarding contraceptive efficacy and safety in humans. The review includes research conducted across different seasons and geographical locations to account for phytochemical variation.

Most important findings

Evidence shows that extracts from H. rosa-sinensis flowers and roots possess strong contraceptive activities. In males, flower extracts reduce sperm count and motility, induce testicular degeneration, and modify androgenic parameters, suggesting antispermatogenic and androgenic effects. Female animals treated with flower or root extracts exhibit disrupted estrous cycles, ovarian follicular atresia, and reduced uterine and ovarian weights, consistent with antiovulatory and antiestrogenic actions. Post-coital antifertility effects have been demonstrated by inhibition of blastocyst implantation and luteolysis, accompanied by altered progesterone levels and uterine biochemical changes. The antifertility effects are dose-dependent and reversible, indicating potential for safe contraceptive development. Traditional uses support these pharmacological findings, with historical applications in controlling fertility and gynecological disorders.

Key implications

This updated review reinforces Hibiscus rosa-sinensis as a promising candidate for natural contraceptive development. Its multifaceted antifertility actions affecting both male and female reproductive physiology could address limitations of current synthetic contraceptives by offering fewer side effects and improved acceptability. Nonetheless, significant gaps remain, including the need for standardized extraction methods, identification of active constituents, comprehensive toxicity evaluations, and well-designed human clinical trials. Addressing these areas could enable translation of this plant’s contraceptive potential into practical, safe, and effective herbal contraceptive products, particularly valuable in resource-limited settings.