Effects of asphaltum (Shilajit) on scrotal circumference and semen quality parameters of adult Lohi rams

Abstract

The present study was designed to investigate the effects of asphaltum on semen characteristics and scrotal circumference of testes of adult Lohi rams. Twelve clinically normal and healthy rams were divided into three groups A, B and C, with four rams in each group. Group A served as control. After one week of acclimatization period, Asphaltum was administered orally to the animals of the groups B and C @ 800 mg/ram and 1600 mg/ram, respectively daily for a period of seven weeks. Experimental trial was continued for nine weeks. Scrotal circumference was measured at the zero and then 9 th week of experiment. Semen was collected at the start and then from the 5th week (twice a week), till the completion of the 9 th week and was evaluated for physical characteristics. Data thus obtained was subjected to ANOVA, two factor CRD and LSD at 5% level of significance. It was concluded from the present study that asphaltum may lead to increase significantly (P<0.05) in volume, number of sperms, motility percentage, mass activity and scrotal circumference of the testes and decrease in pH and dead percentage of sperms.