Evaluation of pawpaw seed powder (Carica papaya) as feed additive on blood parameters and libido in male rabbits

Ayoola Mathew O., Oguntunji Abel O., Alabi Olufemi M., Adekunle David, Akano Samuella

Abstract: Pawpaw seed powder (PSP) and its effect on sexual urge (libido) in adult male rabbit was investigated. Thirty-six pure New Zealand breed rabbits of 5 to 6 months old were divided randomly into three groups of twelve animals each. Group I (control), Group II (50% PSP), Group III (100% PSP) at ratio 0, 0.25 and 0.5 g to 1 kg of feed inclusion respectively. Animals were fed ad libitum for 8 weeks. Phytochemical test was carried out on the PSP. At 8th week of feeding trial, blood samples were collected from each animal for hematological parameters, serum testosterone and libido rate were evaluated. Data generated were subjected to one-way analysis of variance using general linear model. The results of the phytochemical test revealed that PSP contain saponins, tannins, glycosides, phenolic, carbohydrates, proteins and no flavonoids. Measured hematological parameters were within values recommended for healthy rabbits of the same breed, sex and age. The libido (secs) and blood testosterone
(mg/l) of experimental animals were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the treatment. Rabbits in group III had (low libido) and lowest value for testosterone. In conclusion, PSP as feed additive has a potential to influence libido in male rabbits.

Keywords: hematological indices; libido; Pawpaw seed powder; rabbits; testosterone

Date published: 2020-09-15