Modulating Role of Panax Ginseng in Experimentally Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Adult Male Albino Rats

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common non-malignant disease in elderly men. It has a significant impact on the quality of life. Ginseng is one of the most commonly used herbal medicines with a wide range of beneficial effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial effects of ginseng on experimentally induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in adult male albino rat. Twenty four (3-month old) male albino rats, with average weight 180-200 gm, were assigned into three groups: Group I (control group), Group II (ginseng treated) and Group III (BPH). The latter group was then subdivided into 2 groups; BPH+basal diet and BPH+ ginseng. BPH was induced by testosterone propionate 7.5 mg/kg body weight/day intramuscularly for 10 days. Panax ginseng was administered at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight /day orally by gastric tube for 4 weeks. Induction of BPH resulted in significantly increased prostatic weight and increased Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) level in prostate. The histopathological features showed evidence of hyperplasia and inflammation. Quantitative immunohistochemical assessment showed significant upregulation of a-Smooth muscle actin (a-SMA) and Tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a). On the other hand, there was significant down regulation of transforming growth factor-β receptor1 (TGFΒRI) and Caspase-3. Panax ginseng treatment significantly ameliorated the changes associated. Panax ginseng treatment inhibits prostatic hyperplasia by reducing epithelial cell proliferation and smooth muscle hyperplasia that may be attributed to potential anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, anti-oxidant and apoptotic effects. This provides a new insight into the management of BPH using natural agents.