THE EFFECT OF ANETHUM GRAVEOLENS SEEDS ADMINISTRATION ON THE CONCENTRATIONS OF SOME HORMONES AND HISTOLOGICAL CHANGES IN THE OVARIES, UTERUS, AND LACTATIONAL SYSTEM DURING ESTRUS AND PREGNANCY STAGES IN ARABI EWES
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Objective: This study aimed to assess the reproductive performance of Arabi ewes by examining the effects of administering Anethum graveolens seeds (dill seeds) on hormonal profiles (estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin) and histological changes in ovarian, uterine, and mammary tissues during estrus and pregnancy. Methods: Sixteen Arabi ewes (aged 1.5–2 years; weighing 45–53 kg) were randomly divided into four groups: T1 (5 g dill seeds/day orally for 25 days), T2 (10 g dill seeds/day orally for 25 days and again one month postpartum), T3 (intravaginal sponges with Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MAP) for 14 days followed by PMSG injection), and T4 (control group with no treatment). Hormone levels were measured monthly via blood serum, and histological analyses of ovaries, uterus, and mammary glands were performed. Results: Administration of dill seeds significantly influenced hormone concentrations. Estrogen levels increased notably in T2 across pregnancy stages (p<0.05, p<0.01). Progesterone levels also significantly rose in T2 during early pregnancy months (p<0.01). Additionally, prolactin concentrations were significantly elevated in T2 throughout pregnancy and postpartum periods (p<0.01). Histological examinations showed no pathological changes in the uterine tissues. Novelty: Anethum graveolens seeds supported corpus luteum function, promoted increased progesterone and prolactin secretion, and mildly stimulated mammary gland development. Dill seeds could therefore be considered beneficial in enhancing milk production in Arabi ewes.
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