Evaluating the Aphrodisiac Potential of Mirabilis jalapa L. Root Extract: Phytochemical Profiling and In Silico, In Vitro, and In Vivo Assessments in Normal Male Rats

The traditional use of Mirabilis jalapa L. roots to enhance male sexual performance prompted us to assess the in silico, in vitro, and in vivo aphrodisiac activities of its hydroethanolic extract using normal male rats. Spectroscopic characterization indicated the presence of ss-D-glucopyranoside, methyl-1,9-benzyl-2,6-dichloro-9H-purine, and Bis-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate; these compounds have a significant inhibitory effect on the phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) enzyme in silico evaluation and minerals (including zinc, cadmium, and magnesium). Other phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. These phytochemicals and minerals may contribute to the aphrodisiac activities of the extract. Additionally, the in vivo study revealed that the administration of M. jalapa root extract (300 mg/kg) significantly enhanced (p < 0.01, p < 0.03) mount, intromission, and ejaculation frequencies while significantly (p < 0.05) decreasing the mount and intromission latencies, as well as the post-ejaculatory interval time, in comparison with the standard drugs sildenafil and ginseng, resulting in enhanced erection and sexual performance in the rats. Furthermore, the extract significantly (p < 0.05) increased penile reflexes and also elevated the levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormones. Extract (300 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited the PDE-5 enzyme in an in vitro study. Concludingly, the comprehensive findings of this study suggest that a standardized herbal extract derived from M. jalapa roots alleviates erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation in male rats. M. jalapa root extract proved to be an alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

Automated summary

This study assessed the aphrodisiac activities of Mirabilis jalapa root extract on male rats through in silico, in vitro, and in vivo studies. The extract contained compounds and minerals that inhibit the activity of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) enzyme, which may contribute to its aphrodisiac effects. In addition, the extract significantly enhanced erection and sexual performance in rats, inhibited PDE-5 enzyme activity, and increased testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels. Therefore, Mirabilis jalapa root extract is a potential alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.