Effects of cell phone radiation on estrogen and progesterone levels and ovarian changes in rats treated with garlic (Allium sativum L.) hydro-alcoholic extract

Abstract

Background & Aim: Electromagnetic waves can damage sex organs and cause hormonal disorders, whereas garlic is known as reducing risk factors for various diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the probable effects of mobile phone radiation and consumption of garlic on estrogen and progesterone levels and ovarian changes. Experimental: Five groups of rats (n = 8) were used which groups included control, sham (exposed to 900 MHz wavelength), receiving garlic extract, and receiving both extract and microwaves. After a month, rats were weighed and serum levels of estrogen and progesterone were measured. Ovaries were also removed, weighed and their probable histological changes were studied. Results & Discussion: The mean body weights in different groups showed no significant changes, whereas a significant increase was seen in serum level of progesterone in experimental groups-II and III. Also, there were no observable histological changes in the ovaries of different groups. Recommended applications/industries: Although microwaves can cause weight lost in mails and presence of allicin and vitamins A and B in garlic can compensate some of this weight lost, this isn't the case in females. In addition, both microwaves and garlic extract have less effect on female reproductive system, reflected only in the serum progesterone concentration.