Which plant is associated with estrogenic effects in reproduction?

• A. Lupin
• B. Subterranean clover
• C. Buckwheat
• D. St. Johnswort

Answer: (B)

Estrogenic effects in reproduction come from plant compounds that mimic the hormone estrogen and disrupt normal reproductive signaling. Subterranean clover is known for containing phytoestrogens, particularly coumestans like coumestrol, which bind to estrogen receptors and alter hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian function. In grazing animals, this can disrupt ovulation and estrous cycles, leading to infertility and abortion problems, especially in sheep. That’s why subterranean clover is the plant most associated with estrogenic reproductive effects among the options. The other plants are linked to different toxicities (for example, lupin more often relates to alkaloid effects, buckwheat can cause photosensitization in some cases, and St. John’s wort is notable for photosensitivity and drug interactions), not the estrogenic disruption of reproduction.