The Use of Plants Extracts during Cryopreservation of Livestock Epididymal Semen

Abstract

The plants’ extracts have recently emerged as a cheap and natural source of additives to preserve and enhance sperm functions during the cryopreservation process. Extracts from plants are reported to be the main sources of natural antioxidants with lower cytotoxicity as compared to therapeutic antioxidants. The numerous and valuable plant properties, such as antioxidants, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antiparasitic, have been linked to plant extracts. Numerous plant extracts from different species have been used as preservatives for livestock semen cryopreservation. During these processes, the extracts are added to the semen extender in different doses to keep the sperm motile and viable throughout the cryopreservation, including during pre-freezing, equilibration, and post-thawing. The sperm quality parameters can be improved by adding these natural compounds that exert protection against bacteria and reactive oxygen species scavengers in semen extender. Although the application of plant extracts as preservatives for semen storage is still emerging, their potential is promising. They represent natural and economically viable alternatives to the conventional additives currently employed for semen preservation. This review focuses on the aspects related to plant extracts and their role during cryopreservation of semen from domesticated livestock species.