Abstract

Background:
Optimal animal health, as indicated by normal hematological values, is essential for improving animal welfare and productivity, including reproductive performance in female mammals. Moringa is an herbal plant with extensive potential for medical applications, including improving and enhancing animal health as well as reproductive performance.

Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) supplementation on the hematological profile and reproductive performance of female rats during the prepregnancy to lactation period.

Methods:
An experimental study with a completely randomized design was conducted on nulliparous and sexually mature female Sprague-Dawley rats. The study consisted of four treatments and three to five replicates, namely control (feed without MOLE), MOLEE (feed containing MOL ethanol extract, MOLEF (feed containing MOL ethanol fraction), and MOLHE (feed containing MOL n-hexane extract). Observed variables included hematological values, estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, and oxytocin levels, litter size, prenatal mortality rate, birth weight, milk production, and pups' weight gain.

Results:
The results showed significant differences in most hematological parameters (WBC, RBC, Hgb, and Hct) and reproductive hormones (estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin levels). MOLE supplementation during pregnancy did not affect litter size and birth weight, but the MOLEE and MOLEF groups caused prenatal mortality. In addition, MOLE supplementation significantly increased milk yield but not pups' weight gain.

Conclusion:
MOLE supplementation positively affected the hematological values of female rats during the reproductive period and enhanced reproductive performance (reproductive hormone levels and milk production). However, it is essential to be aware of the possible adverse effects of prenatal mortality, which require further investigation to uncover the underlying causes and mechanisms.

Key words: Hematology, Milk production, Moringa oleifera, Prenatal mortality, Reproductive hormones