A review of medicinal plants used for the restoration of reproductive functionality following cimetidine-induced reproductive toxicity

Abstract Objectives This review investigates cimetidine’s impact on testicular function, emphasizing histopathological changes, and impaired spermatogenesis resulting in reduced sperm count. Cimetidine disrupts the hormonal balance in both genders. The study explores the potential of medicinal plants (Curcuma longa, Nigella sativa, Tetracarpidium conophorium, Ginger Rhizome, and Kaempferia parviflora rhizome extract) to counter cimetidine-induced toxicity. Methods A systematic review within the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, and Study design (PICOS) framework and adherence to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 standards, which outline comprehensiveness, accuracy, and reporting guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses, identified relevant literature through electronic databases. Findings Medicinal plants exhibit diverse mechanisms, indicating the potential to restore reproductive functionality and mitigate cimetidine-induced toxicity. They serve as adjunctive treatments for managing reproductive impairments caused by cimetidine. Conclusions This review provides concise insights into the potential of medicinal plants, notably C. longa, Nigella sativa, Tetracarpidium conophorium, Ginger Rhizome, and Kaempferia parviflora rhizome extract, as interventions against cimetidine-induced reproductive toxicity. These findings propose alternative strategies for addressing reproductive impairments linked to cimetidine.