Investigations on Dieffenbachia amoena Gentil. I: Endocrine effects and contraceptive activity

Contraceptive activity and the correlated endocrine alterations of an aqueous extract of the leaves of Dieffenbachia amoena were investigated. In female Wistar rats the extract, given for 4 days during the estrous cycle, induced significant variations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin (PRL) progesterone and 17 beta-estradiol levels. It also determined a reversible interruption of the estrous cycle with consequent temporary inhibition of ovulation.