# Influence of Phlai (Zingiber montanum) and Njui (Bombax ceiba) Extracts in Bull Semen Extender on Antioxidant Activity and Sperm Quality

## TL;DR

This study explores how Phlai and Njui plant extracts improve bull sperm quality by acting as natural antioxidants.

## Contribution

The novel contribution is the evaluation of Phlai and Njui extracts as natural antioxidants for enhancing bull sperm motility and preservation.

## Key findings

- Njui extract showed the highest levels of total phenolics, tannins, lycopene, and strongest antioxidant activity.
- Phlai extract contained the highest flavonoid content and improved sperm motility when used in semen extenders.
- Combined Phlai and Njui extracts enhanced sperm motility and reduced ROS more effectively than vitamin E acetate.

## Abstract

Infertility represents a significant global health issue, and the use of antioxidants in sperm preservation techniques provides an effective strategy to improve sperm quality. This study aims to examine the phytochemical components of Phlai and Njui extracts and their antioxidant effects on enhancing the motility of fresh bull semen. Among the extracts, Njui contained the highest levels of total phenolics, total tannins, and lycopene contents along with the strongest DPPH, ABTS, and AOPP inhibition. Phlai contained the highest levels of total flavonoids. Njui and combined extracts showed the strongest AGE inhibition. The motility of sperm in the semen extender supplemented with Phlai, Njui, and their combination exhibited greater total motility, particularly progressive motility, compared to sperm in the normal extender after 48–72 h. Furthermore, there was a reduced generation of ROS compared to sperm in the normal extender and with vitamin E acetate supplementation after 24–72 h. In conclusion, Phlai and Njui extracts, plentiful in bioactive chemicals, showed significant antioxidant activity and enhanced sperm motility by neutralizing free radicals and strengthening antioxidant defenses. The findings indicate that Phlai and Njui, especially in combination, provide advantages for sperm preservation.