A B S T R A C T
Background: The structural health of testes and semen quality in rams depends on their ability to withstand oxidative damage and nutritional imbalances. The specific effects of Withania somnifera and vitamin E on male reproductive health and their ability to reduce oxidative stress have not been determined although research shows they provide benefits.
Objective: The research examined the effects of W. somnifera aqueous extract when used with vitamin E supplements on testicular dimensions and semen characteristics in rams.
Method: The research included twenty-four rams who showed no clinical problems when they reached ten months of age and weighed 35 ± 0.5 kg. The research divided animals into four groups of six each where T1 animals received only the basal ration and T2 animals received W. somnifera at 150 mg/kg body weight and T3 animals received vitamin E at 100 mg/kg body weight and T4 animals received both agents simultaneously. The research period lasted 12 weeks while animals received their assigned treatments via oral administration. The researchers measured testicular dimensions every two weeks and obtained semen samples for analysis of volume and concentration and sperm motility and morphology assessment at the study's end.
Results: The T4 group which received both supplements demonstrated substantial improvements in sperm motility and ejaculate concentration and testicular size (p ≤ 0.05). The combined application of antioxidant and phytochemical compounds produced enhanced results which suggest their compounds interact with biological systems at cellular or physiological levels.
Conclusion: The combination of W. somnifera with vitamin E resulted in major improvements of testicular structure and semen quality which shows promise for reproductive enhancement in rams. The research shows that botanical antioxidants used with micronutrient supplements form an effective method to boost fertility and reproductive outcomes in livestock