Fertility Potentials of West African Dwarf Rams Treated Chaya Extract

The effects of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (Chaya) plant extract on the semen characteristics, sperm morphology, haematological and serum testosterone of West African dwarf (WAD) breeding rams was carried out. The plant has been used traditionally for both medicinal and non-medicinal purposes. Chaya is being fed to animals as a laxative, diuretic, circulation stimulant and to improve digestion, but not much is known on its effects on fertility potentials of animals especially sheep. Therefore, the study helped to ascertain the effects of the plant on the health and fertility potentials of the West African dwarf rams. The findings revealed that prolonged feeding of C. aconitifolius may precipitate decreased sexual function, a reduction in libido and erectile dysfunction because of low testosterone concentration and also a decrease value on haemoglobin which can precipitate anaemia and finally infertility in the male animals.