The Role of Propolis to Enhance Reproductive Performance of Male Rabbits

Abstract

The natural resinous derivative known as propolis is synthesized by honey bees through the integration of their salivary enzymes with botanical secretions harvested from leaf buds and cortical fissures. Due to its potent therapeutic potential, propolis has gained significant traction as a functional ingredient in nutritional supplements and health-oriented beverages aimed at disease prevention and systemic well-being. Its pharmacological profile is characterized by a diverse array of bioactive properties, most notably its antioxidant, antimicrobial, fungicidal, and anti-inflammatory activities, which have been linked to protective effects against chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and various malignancies.   The objective of the current investigation was to determine the physiological impact of propolis supplementation on the reproductive performance of male New Zealand White rabbits. Subjects were administered a dosage of 40 mg/kg body weight (BW) on an alternating-day schedule over a 12-week experimental period. Empirical evidence from this study indicates that propolis treatment significantly enhanced (P < 0.05) several key fertility parameters. Notably, there was a marked increase in the concentration and total output of spermatozoa, as well as an improvement in packed sperm volume (PSV) and the total count of motile sperm per ejaculate (TMS). Furthermore, the treatment appeared to positively influence sexual behavior (libido), evidenced by a reduction in reaction time, while simultaneously elevating the proportions of live and morphologically normal spermatozoa.