Oestrogenic Effects of Subterranean Clover: Studies on the Female Guinea Pig

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Abstract
Estradiol dipropionate injection (0.5, 2, 8, and 32 ug.) and subterranean clover ingestion (30 g. per day) produced similar effects in female guinea pigs, namely, infertility and epithelial changes in the accessory reproductive organs. The "degree" of infertility obtained was directly relatable to the level of estrogen supplied, being permanent at the 32 [mu]g. level. The higher the dose given the longer the delay in recommencing breeding after discontinuance of injns. However, clover consumption caused an immediate, though transitory, infertility, recovery occurring simultaneously with cessation of feeding. Injected estradiol interfered with ovulation, and follicular atresia and gradual lengthening of the estrus phase were regularly observed, but ingested clover estrogen did not impede ovulation or the cyclic occurrence of estrus. It is suggested that the effect of estradiol on the ovary was mediated via the pituitary by impairment of gonadotropin production. On the other hand, the dietary (clover) estrogen may have acted directly on the environment of the reproductive tract to modify the activity of the germinal elements.