Effect of adding different concentrations of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L) extract to preserve the quality of chilled Awassi ram semen

Chamomile extract has numerous compounds that act as antioxidants, enhancing semen characteristics during cooling for 72 h. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of adding chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L) extract to sperm extenders during cooling storage on semen quality parameters. Three rams were taken, semen was pooled and distributed into four parts and diluted with a Tris-based extender. Therefore, the control group was C0, without chamomile extract; the second group was C1 (0.30 mg chamomile extract); the third group was C2 (0.60 mg chamomile extract); and the fourth group was C3 (0.90 mg chamomile extract). Samples were stored at 4 °C for 72 h. The individual motility, live sperm, membrane integrity, total, and types of abnormalities (head, middle, and tail) of sperm were evaluated. Results showed that individual motility, live sperm, and sperm membrane integrity in the C1 group were significantly increased (P<0.05) throughout storage. The C2 group showed significant improvements (P<0.05) in individual motility and sperm membrane integrity for 72 h. Sperm abnormalities decreased significantly (P<0.05) in groups C1 and C2 at 48 and 72 h compared to the C0 and C3 groups. Abnormal tail sperm decreased significantly (P<0.05) in the C1, C2, and C3 groups compared to the C0 group at 72 h. The study indicated that adding 0.30 mg and then 0.60 mg of chamomile extract to semen extender enhances sperm motility, sperm membrane integrity, and live sperm, while also reducing total abnormal sperm and abnormal sperm (head, middle, and tail) compared to 0.90 mg.