Influence of Date Molasses and Honey on Reproductive Performance and Hormone Levels in Male Rabbits (Bucks)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/ijapm.2026.42.1.18Keywords:
Rabbits, FSH, Date Molasses, Honey, Luteinizing HormonesAbstract
Background: The increased curiosity in natural nutraceuticals has led to the investigations into the effects of dietary supplements on animal reproductive performance. Objective: The study aimed to determine the impact of consuming honey and date molasses on reproductive hormone levels, blood glucose and testicular histopathology in male New Zealand White rabbits. Methods: 15 male rabbits were selected at random and divided into three groups (n=5 rabbits each) as follows: the control group (G1), date molasses group (G2, 1 g/kg), and honey group (G3, 1 g/kg), which were administered orally over 45 days. We analyzed the follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone and blood sugar levels at 0, 15, 30 and 45 days. The testicular tissues were tested by using histological examination following the experiment. Findings: The results showed significant increases (P<0.05) in the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone in G2 and G3 as compared to G1 and the strongest hormonal response was observed in the honey group. G2 and G3 significantly elevated the level of blood glucose but the levels were normal. G1 showed a normal testicular architecture, G2 showed moderate degenerative alterations and G3 showed modest changes with retained spermatogenesis via histopathological examination. Conclusions: Honey and date molasses of honey enhanced reproductive hormone profiles but honey had better results in stimulating hormonal activity and maintaining healthier testicular tissues. These findings justify the use of honey as a safe and effective dietary supplement to boost male procreation in rabbits.References
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