Effect of Loboob, a Traditional Persian Multi-Herbal Formulation, on Semen Parameters and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Despite advances in assisted reproductive technologies, overall success rates remain modest, prompting many couples to explore complementary and alternative therapies. Loboob, a traditional Persian multi-herbal formulation, has historically been used to enhance male reproductive health, yet robust human data are lacking. To evaluate the effects of Loboob on semen parameters and pregnancy outcomes in infertile men. In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial, 44 infertile men were equally assigned to Loboob or placebo groups. The intervention group received 5 cc of Loboob twice daily for three months; controls received placebo. Both groups received standardized lifestyle and dietary recommendations based on Traditional Persian Medicine. Semen analysis was performed at baseline and three months. Pregnancy was confirmed by maternal β-hCG within six months and monitored to delivery. Independent t-test and Chi-square were used, with significance at p < 0.05. Loboob significantly improved semen volume (p = 0.039), sperm count (p = 0.030), and motility (p = 0.017) compared with placebo, while morphology showed no significant change (p = 0.574). During follow-up, 10 pregnancies occurred in the Loboob group (47.6%) and 7 in the placebo group (31.8%) (p = 0.45). All pregnancies progressed to term and resulted in healthy live births, with no miscarriages. Loboob improved semen volume, count, and motility, though pregnancy outcomes did not differ significantly between groups. Larger, multi-center trials with extended follow-up are needed to validate these findings and clarify the role of Loboob as an adjunctive therapy for male infertility.