JIST

Abstract

Bamboo shoots (Bambusa arundinacea) are well known as highly nutritious food used in chutney and pickles in Indian cuisine. But they contain a potent antithyroid cyanogenic glycoside to the extent of 800-1000mg/kg. Abnormal thyroid function can influence normal reproductive function.

The current study was designed to evaluate the morphological and functional status of testes after ingestion of raw Bambusa arundinacea shoots for two consecutive reproductive cycles. The experimental animals were divided into two groups: six in each division. Control group rats were maintained with normal diet, while the treatment group received a diet with 1/3 amount supplemented by raw Bambusa arundinacea shoots.

The results show that raw Bambusa arundinacea shoots intake could lower bodyweight as well as testicular weight; testosterone level and sperm count could also undergo decrease, with inhibition off Δ5-3β HSD  and 17β HSD.