Epimedium compound-based boar semen improved feed additive as well as preparation method and application thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of animal breeding, in particular to a boar semen improved feed additive based on a herba epimedii compound as well as a preparation method and application of the boar semen improved feed additive. The improved feed additive is prepared from the following active ingredients in parts by weight: 15 to 35 parts of herba epimedii extract, 10 to 25 parts of radix salviae miltiorrhizae extract, 8 to 20 parts of radix rehmanniae extract, 5 to 15 parts of caulis sinomenii extract, 0.1 to 0.8 part of vitamin E and 0.05 to 0.2 part of organic zinc. According to the invention, multiple active ingredients such as the herba epimedii extract, the organic zinc, the radix salviae miltiorrhizae, the radix rehmanniae and the caulis sinomenii are systematically matched with a preferred carrier, so that multi-path synergy in the aspects of spermatogenesis promotion, oxidation resistance, inflammation resistance, endocrine regulation, preparation delivery and the like is realized, and the semen quality of boars is remarkably improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of animal reproductive technology, and in particular to a boar semen-modified feed additive based on Epimedium compound, its preparation method, and its application. Background Technology

[0002] Boar semen quality is a key factor affecting the efficiency of pig farming, directly impacting sow conception rate, litter size, and offspring health. In modern intensive farming, boars often face multiple pressures, including environmental stress, nutritional imbalances, and oxidative damage, leading to decreased sperm density, insufficient motility, and increased sperm deformity rates. Traditional solutions rely primarily on antibiotics or hormones, but long-term use of these chemicals can lead to drug resistance and residues, affecting pork quality and contradicting current trends in green and healthy farming. Current boar semen improvement products have significant limitations. For example, while vitamin and mineral additives can alleviate oxidative stress, the effects of single components are limited, and there is a risk of poisoning from excessive dosage. Chemically synthesized additives such as carnitine and arginine have some effect, but they are costly and may increase metabolic burden. Some plant extract products exhibit inconsistent effectiveness due to unstable active ingredients or improper formulation. More importantly, most existing products are not specifically designed to meet the unique physiological needs of the boar reproductive system and lack a mechanism for synergistic improvement of testicular microcirculation, hormone balance, and epididymal function.

[0003] Traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCM) compound formulas have unique advantages in improving the reproductive performance of boars, and their ability to regulate bodily functions through multiple targets and pathways is receiving increasing attention. Herbs such as Epimedium, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Rehmannia glutinosa, and Sinomenium acutum all have clear "kidney-tonifying and blood-activating" effects in traditional veterinary medicine. Epimedium is rich in flavonoid active ingredients, which can effectively promote testosterone secretion and improve spermatogenesis efficiency; Salvia miltiorrhiza has a significant effect on improving microcirculation and can alleviate ischemia and hypoxia in testicular tissue; Rehmannia glutinosa's yin-nourishing and kidney-tonifying effects help regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis; and Sinomenium acutum exerts anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, reducing damage to sperm caused by reproductive tract inflammation. However, current technologies for the application of these herbs still have many shortcomings. Most studies only use single herbs or simple combinations, failing to form a scientific formulation system. In terms of extraction processes, crude methods such as high-temperature decoction are commonly used, leading to significant losses of heat-sensitive components such as epimedin and sinomenine. In addition, existing products often overlook the digestive and absorptive characteristics of boars and lack targeted carrier design, resulting in unsatisfactory bioavailability.

[0004] Therefore, there is still a lack of a compound veterinary medicine additive product specifically developed for boars to solve the problems of high cost, low efficacy, and significant side effects of existing products. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a boar semen-modified feed additive based on Epimedium compound, its preparation method, and its application. The purpose is to effectively improve boar semen quality and enhance reproductive performance by scientifically combining the active ingredients of various Chinese medicinal herbs with optimized extraction processes and carrier systems.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a modified feed additive for boar semen based on a compound of Epimedium, characterized in that the modified feed additive is composed of the following active ingredients in parts by weight: 15-35 parts of Epimedium extract, 10-25 parts of Salvia miltiorrhiza extract, 8-20 parts of Rehmannia glutinosa extract, 5-15 parts of Sinomenium acutum extract, 0.1-0.8 parts of vitamin E, and 0.05-0.2 parts of organic zinc.

[0007] Preferably, the epimedium powder passes through an 80-100 mesh sieve, and the epimedin content is ≥1.0-1.5%;

[0008] The fine powder of danshen passed through an 80-100 mesh sieve, and the content of tanshinone IIA was ≥0.2-0.3%.

[0009] The Rehmannia glutinosa powder passed through an 80-100 mesh sieve, and the catalpol content was ≥0.5-0.8%.

[0010] The sterilized powder of *Sinomenium acutum* passed through a 100-mesh sieve, and the content of sinomenine was ≥2.0-3.0%.

[0011] Preferably, the organic zinc is zinc methionine or zinc yeast, and the ratio of zinc content to the mass of the modified feed additive is 5-15 mg / kg.

[0012] Preferably, the improved feed additive further includes a feed-grade carrier, which is composed of defatted rice bran and bentonite in a weight ratio of 2-3:1, and the carrier accounts for 20-40% of the total weight of the improved feed additive.

[0013] The carrier system has the following advantages: (1) defatted rice bran provides good palatability and dietary fiber; (2) bentonite enhances the stability and adsorption of active ingredients; (3) the compound ratio optimizes the overall flowability and mixing uniformity of the feed additive.

[0014] Under the same technical concept, the present invention also provides a method for preparing the boar semen-modified feed additive based on Epimedium compound, comprising the following steps:

[0015] (1) Extract the epimedium, salvia miltiorrhiza, rehmannia glutinosa and sinomenium acutum separately to obtain the extracts;

[0016] (2) Combine the extracts and concentrate them to a relative density of 1.10-1.25;

[0017] (3) The extract was spray-dried to obtain a composite extract powder;

[0018] (4) Mix with vitamin E and organic zinc for 10-15 minutes;

[0019] (5) The mixture is sieved and packaged to obtain a boar semen-modified feed additive based on Epimedium compound.

[0020] Preferably, the extraction in step (1) specifically includes: extracting Epimedium and Salvia miltiorrhiza by reflux with 60-75% ethanol 1-3 times, with the ethanol extraction conditions being: material-liquid ratio 1:8-12 w / v, and extraction time 1.5-2 h each time;

[0021] Rehmannia glutinosa and Sinomenium acutum were extracted using warm water at 40-60℃. The extraction conditions were: material-to-liquid ratio of 1:10-15 w / v and extraction time of 3-4 h.

[0022] Preferably, the concentration temperature in step (2) is 50-70°C.

[0023] Preferably, the spray drying in step (3) has an inlet air temperature of 160-180℃ and an outlet air temperature of 70-85℃; feed-grade carrier is added during three-dimensional mixing in step (4), and the carrier accounts for 20-40% of the total weight; and sieving in step (5) is done with a 60-mesh sieve.

[0024] Under the same technical concept, the present invention also provides the application of the boar semen-modified feed additive based on Epimedium compound or the boar semen-modified feed additive based on Epimedium compound prepared by the above preparation method in the preparation of boar reproductive performance-improving feed.

[0025] Preferably, the boar reproductive performance improvement feed is added at a rate of 0.5-1.5 g / kg of boar body weight per day, and used continuously for 20-30 days during the breeding season.

[0026] The final concentration of the boar semen-modified feed additive based on epimedium compound in the diet is as follows: epimedium glycoside 20-30 mg / kg, tanshinone IIA 1-5 mg / kg, catalpol 1-2 mg / kg, sinomenine 1-2 mg / kg, vitamin E 6-10 mg / kg, and zinc 1-3 mg / kg.

[0027] This invention achieves a multi-pathway synergistic effect in improving boar semen quality through the systematic combination of various active ingredients, including Epimedium extract, organic zinc, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Rehmannia glutinosa, and Sinomenium acutum, with a preferred carrier. This synergistic effect manifests in several ways, including promoting spermatogenesis, anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, endocrine regulation, and formulation delivery. The specific synergistic mechanism and effects are as follows:

[0028] (1) Synergistic spermatogenic mechanism of Epimedium extract and organic zinc

[0029] Icariin, the main active ingredient of icariin, acts on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis to promote testosterone secretion and provide hormonal support for spermatogenesis. Meanwhile, organic zinc, as a zinc source with high bioavailability, is a key cofactor for various enzymes (such as DNA polymerase and alkaline phosphatase) during spermatogenesis, directly participating in spermatogenesis and maturation. In this experiment, the synergistic effect of the "spermatogenic power" provided by icariin and the "spermatogenic raw materials" provided by organic zinc significantly increased the number of sperm produced (manifested as increased density) and the usable dose per semen collection (increased effective canister count).

[0030] (2) Synergistic mechanism of Salvia miltiorrhiza, Rehmannia glutinosa, Sinomenium acutum and Epimedium

[0031] The experimental data showed a significant improvement in sperm motility (proportion of progressively motile sperm) in the compound treatment group. We infer that this is mainly due to the synergistic effect and protective effect of other Chinese herbal ingredients on Epimedium: Salvia miltiorrhiza extract (synergistic protection): its strong antioxidant activity helps to eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during sperm metabolism, protecting the structural integrity and function of sperm cell membranes and mitochondria; Rehmannia glutinosa extract (synergistic stabilization): its yin-nourishing and kidney-tonifying effects can harmonize the warm and drying nature of Epimedium, presumably helping to maintain the stability of the endocrine environment in boars, ensuring the sustainability and robustness of the spermatogenesis process; Sinomenium acutum extract (synergistic obstacle removal): its anti-inflammatory effect helps to reduce potential micro-inflammation in the reproductive system, improve the spermatogenic microenvironment of the testes, remove obstacles for the efficient functioning of Epimedium and zinc, and improve overall semen quality.

[0032] (3) Optimal selection and synergistic effect of carriers

[0033] This invention uses a compound carrier of defatted rice bran and bentonite (weight ratio 2–3:1), which not only provides good flowability and mixing uniformity, but also fixes the active ingredients through the adsorption of bentonite, preventing clumping and degradation. The palatability and fiber properties of defatted rice bran promote consumption, and together they ensure the efficient and stable delivery of active ingredients, supporting the realization of the overall synergistic effect at the formulation level.

[0034] In summary, this invention, through multi-target regulation, optimizes the testicular spermatogenesis environment and ensures the stability of the sperm maturation process, thereby achieving a comprehensive improvement in boar semen quality (density, motility, and deformity rate). The product uses an all-natural formula, has been tested and found to contain no drug residues, fully complying with green farming standards. It provides a safe and effective systematic solution for improving boar reproductive performance, demonstrating clear innovation.

[0035] The above-described solution of the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0036] This invention utilizes a scientifically formulated combination of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, including Epimedium, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Rehmannia glutinosa, and Sinomenium acutum, to fully leverage the synergistic effects of each component. The process employs a segmented extraction method combining alcohol and water extraction, optimizing extraction conditions based on the characteristics of the active ingredients in different herbs to maximize the retention of active components. The product features a specially designed composite carrier system composed of defatted rice bran and bentonite, ensuring both the stability of the active ingredients and improving release efficiency in the intestines. This innovative technology provides a safe and effective solution for improving the reproductive performance of boars in antibiotic-free farming, not only meeting the requirements of modern green development in animal husbandry but also creating significant economic benefits for farming enterprises. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1 Comparative analysis of semen quality indicators of boars in different treatment groups (CK, EG, CE-1, CE-2, CE-3, CE-4) during a 30-day experimental period. The semen quality indicators were sperm motility, semen volume, sperm density, and number of sperm in the semen can. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To make the technical problems, solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, a detailed description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0039] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0040] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a locking connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0041] Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of the present invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0042] Example 1:

[0043] The preparation method of the boar semen-modified feed additive based on Epimedium compound provided in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0044] (1) Extraction: Epimedium and Salvia miltiorrhiza powder (passed through an 80-mesh sieve) were extracted twice with 70% ethanol solution at 80°C for 2 hours each time, with a material-to-liquid ratio of 1:10 (w / v); Rehmannia glutinosa and Sinomenium acutum powder were extracted twice with 50°C warm water after passing through a 100-mesh sieve, for 3.5 hours each time, with a material-to-liquid ratio of 1:12 (w / v).

[0045] (2) Concentration and drying: Combine the four extracts, filter, and concentrate under reduced pressure at 60°C to a relative density of 1.15 (detected at 60°C).

[0046] (3) The mixture was dried using a centrifugal spray drying tower with an inlet air temperature of 175°C and an outlet air temperature of 80°C to obtain a dry powder of the compound plant extract.

[0047] (4) Mixing: Put the above dry powder, vitamin E, zinc methionine and composite carrier (defatted rice bran: bentonite = 2.5: 1) into a three-dimensional motion mixer and mix for 12 minutes until uniform;

[0048] (5) After passing through a 90-mesh sieve, the product is packaged to obtain a boar semen-modified feed additive based on Epimedium compound.

[0049] The improved feed additive consists of the following active ingredients in parts by weight: 15-35 parts of Epimedium extract, 10-25 parts of Salvia miltiorrhiza extract, 8-20 parts of Rehmannia glutinosa extract, 5-15 parts of Sinomenium acutum extract, 0.1-0.8 parts of vitamin E, and 0.05-0.2 parts of organic zinc.

[0050] The content of epimedium glycoside in epimedium powder is ≥1.0-1.5%;

[0051] The content of tanshinone IIA in finely powdered danshen is ≥0.2-0.3%;

[0052] The content of catalpol in Rehmannia glutinosa powder is ≥0.5-0.8%;

[0053] The content of sinomenine in the sterilized powder of Sinomenium acutum is ≥2.0-3.0%.

[0054] A modified feed additive with a zinc content of 5-15 mg / kg.

[0055] The carrier accounts for 20-40% of the total weight of the improved feed additive.

[0056] The application of the boar semen-modified feed additive based on Epimedium compound provided in this embodiment includes the following experimental design:

[0057] 1.1 Experimental Animals and Their Husbandry Management

[0058] Thirty healthy, 6-month-old Duroc boars were selected and randomly divided into 5 groups of 6 boars each, housed in individual pens. The experiment lasted 30 days. During the experiment, all boars had free access to feed and water. The ambient temperature was controlled at 18-25℃, and the relative humidity was controlled at 60%-80%. Daily management strictly followed the standard operating procedures for pig farms.

[0059] 1.2 Experimental Diet Design and Preparation 1.2.1 Basic Diet

[0060] The control group (CK group) was fed a corn-soybean meal basal diet, the composition and nutrient levels of which are shown in Table 1. All raw materials were ground and then thoroughly mixed using a horizontal mixer (mixing uniformity CV ≤ 5%).

[0061] Table 1. Composition and nutrient levels of the basal diet (air-dried basal diet) ;

[0062] Note: Premix 1 The premix provides the following per kilogram of complete feed: VA 8000 IU, VD3 2000 IU, VE 30 IU, Fe 100 mg, Cu 20 mg, Mn 40 mg, Zn 100 mg, and Se 0.3 mg.

[0063] 1.2.2 Experimental group diet

[0064] The experimental group (EG group) received a diet supplemented with 1.0 g / kg (1‰) of the complete boar semen-modified feed additive based on epimedium compound, as described in this embodiment. The final concentration of this additive in the diet ensured the following content of its core active ingredients: epimedin 24 mg / kg, tanshinone IIA 3 mg / kg, catalpol 1.6 mg / kg, sinomenine 1.2 mg / kg, vitamin E 8 mg / kg, and zinc (provided as zinc methionine) 2 mg / kg.

[0065] 1.2.3 Comparative Diets

[0066] To verify the irreplaceable synergistic effect of each component, the following comparative sample group was set up:

[0067] Comparative Example 1 (CE-1 group): The diet was supplemented with the default organic zinc additive (i.e., without zinc methionine) at a rate of 1.0 g / kg, and simultaneously with anhydrous zinc sulfate at a rate of 8.8 mg / kg. To ensure that the total zinc supplementation in the diet was consistent with that of the EG group (2 mg / kg), the objective was to investigate the superior bioavailability of organic zinc compared to inorganic zinc.

[0068] Comparative Example 2 (CE-2 group): A test additive consisting of 1.0 g / kg of the default Tanshinone extract added to the diet. Objective: To verify the key role of Tanshinone extract in anti-oxidation and protection of sperm plasma membrane integrity.

[0069] Comparative Example 3 (CE-3 group): A test additive consisting of 1.0 g / kg of the default Sinomenium acutum extract in the diet. Objective: To verify the contribution of Sinomenium acutum extract in anti-inflammation and improvement of the testicular spermatogenic microenvironment.

[0070] Comparative Example 4 (CE-4 group): A test additive consisting of 1.0 g / kg of the default Rehmannia glutinosa extract added to the diet. Objective: To verify the role of Rehmannia glutinosa extract in regulating homeostasis and ensuring the sustainability of spermatogenesis.

[0071] 1.3 Observation Indicators and Detection Methods

[0072] Semen from boars was collected using the artificial breeding method on days 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 of the experiment and tested immediately. The testing indicators and methods included:

[0073] Semen volume: recorded using a precision electronic balance (1 g ≈ 1 mL).

[0074] Sperm density: determined using a computer-aided semen analysis system (CASA) or a sperm density meter. ).

[0075] Sperm motility: The percentage of progressively motile sperm (PR) in the sample was analyzed using the CASA system.

[0076] Total effective sperm count: Total effective sperm count = semen volume × sperm density × sperm motility (PR%).

[0077] Sperm morphology: The percentage of sperm with normal morphology was observed and calculated under an oil immersion microscope using a staining method.

[0078] 1.4 Data Processing

[0079] All data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. One-way ANOVA was performed using SPSS 25.0 statistical software. Duncan's multiple comparison test was used to determine the significance of differences between groups, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

[0080] Results and Analysis

[0081] This study compared the semen quality indicators of six groups of boars (n=6 per group) over 30 days, including the control group (CK group), the example group (EG group), and the comparative groups (CE-1, CE-2, CE-3, and CE-4 groups). Note: During the experiment, six semen samples were collected from each group of boars (n=6). The measured indicators included: sperm motility (proportion of progressively motile sperm); sperm density (hundred million / mL); semen volume (mL / sample); and effective fill count (dose / sample). The specific results are shown in Table 2 below.

[0082] Table 2. Semen quality indicators of six groups of boars (n=6 per group) in the control group (CK group), the example group (EG group), and the comparative groups (CE-1, CE-2, CE-3, and CE-4 groups) within 30 days. ;

[0083] Note: Different letters indicate significant differences (P < 0.05).

[0084] 1. Sperm motility: Experimental results show that ( Figure 1 (Table 2) The effects of each component on sperm motility enhancement, in order of importance, are: Danshen (antioxidant protection) > Organic zinc (sperm-producing raw material) > Qingfengteng (anti-inflammatory and decongestant) > Dihuang (maintaining homeostasis). The sperm motility of the control group (CK group, no additives) was 0.80±0.08, representing the baseline level with significant fluctuations; the CE-2 group (lacking Salvia miltiorrhiza) had 0.87±0.06, with the lowest motility due to the lack of antioxidant protection; the CE-1 group (with inorganic zinc replacing organic zinc) had 0.89±0.04, with limited efficacy due to insufficient zinc bioavailability; the CE-3 group (lacking Sinomenium acutum) had 0.91±0.04, showing fluctuations in motility due to inflammation; the CE-4 group (lacking Rehmannia glutinosa) had 0.93±0.03, with a slight decrease in efficacy due to insufficient homeostasis regulation; while the EG group (complete formula group) reached 0.96±0.05, indicating that the components produced a synergistic effect, achieving optimal sperm motility and significantly improved stability.

[0085] 2. Semen volume: Experimental results show that ( Figure 1Table 2 shows the synergistic effect of each component in promoting the secretory function of accessory sex glands. As shown in Table 2, the semen volume of the experimental group (EG group, complete formula) reached 223.28 mL, which was significantly higher than the 169.05 mL of the control group (CK group, no additive) (P < 0.05). The comparative groups showed a regular gradient change: the CE-1 group (inorganic zinc instead of organic zinc) was 205.78 mL, which was significantly better than the control group, but significantly lower than the EG group (P < 0.05), indicating that organic zinc, as a raw material for spermatogenesis, has a key promoting effect on secretory function; the CE-2 group (lacking Salvia miltiorrhiza) and the CE-3 group (lacking Sinomenium acutum) were 195.22 mL and 185.47 mL, respectively, suggesting that they indirectly support glandular health through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, respectively; the CE-4 group (lacking Rehmannia glutinosa) had the lowest volume (175.67 mL), which was not significantly different from the control group, confirming that Rehmannia glutinosa has an irreplaceable basic role in maintaining endocrine homeostasis and ensuring continuous secretory capacity.

[0086] 3. Sperm density: Experimental results show that ( Figure 1 Table 2 shows the effects and mechanisms of action of each component on testicular spermatogenesis. The experimental group (EG group, complete formula) had a sperm density of 355 million / mL, significantly higher than the control group (CK group, no additives) of 295 million / mL (P < 0.05). Each comparative group showed a characteristic distribution: the CE-1 group (with inorganic zinc replacing organic zinc) had the lowest density (310 million / mL), significantly lower than the EG group (P < 0.05), demonstrating the irreplaceable role of organic zinc as a key raw material for spermatogenesis; the CE-4 group (lacking Rehmannia glutinosa) had a density of 335 million / mL, better than the CE-1 group but still significantly lower than the EG group, indicating that Rehmannia glutinosa promotes spermatogenesis by maintaining the homeostasis of the spermatogenic internal environment; the CE-2 group (lacking Salvia miltiorrhiza) and CE-3 group (lacking Sinomenium acutum) had densities of 325 million / mL and 318 million / mL respectively, with relatively small differences from the EG group, confirming that these two components mainly protect sperm function through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, rather than directly promoting spermatogenesis.

[0087] 4. Number of semen jars: Experimental results show that ( Figure 1Table 2) fully verifies the synergistic effect of the present invention from the perspective of production application. The number of doses in the experimental group (EG group) reached 24.97, which was significantly higher than the 16.78 doses in the control group (CK group) (P < 0.05). Each comparison group showed a characteristic gradient: the CE-2 group (deficient in Salvia miltiorrhiza) had the lowest number of doses (19.58 doses) and the largest individual difference, proving that Salvia miltiorrhiza plays a core role in stabilizing sperm production by ensuring sperm motility; the CE-1 group (deficient in organic zinc) had 20.58 doses, indicating the importance of zinc as a spermatogenic raw material for increasing production; the CE-3 group (deficient in Sinomenium acutum) and the CE-4 group (deficient in Rehmannia glutinosa) reached 21.25 and 22.86 doses respectively, which were significantly better than the control group, but still different from the EG group (P < 0.05), showing its supporting role in improving the microenvironment and maintaining homeostasis for comprehensive production.

[0088] in conclusion:

[0089] This experiment systematically verified the synergistic mechanism and comprehensive application effect of the boar semen-improving feed additive of this invention. The results showed that the complete formula (EG group) achieved the best performance in four core indicators: sperm motility (0.96±0.02), semen volume (223.28 mL), sperm density (355 million / mL), and effective dosage (24.97 doses / batch). By setting up precise comparative ratios, it was confirmed that the five components of the formula—Epimedium extract, organic zinc, Salvia miltiorrhiza extract, Rehmannia glutinosa extract, and Sinomenium acutum extract—constitute an inseparable organic whole, each playing a functional role in "spermatogenic power supply, key raw material supplementation, oxidative damage protection, internal environment homeostasis maintenance, and spermatogenic microenvironment improvement," forming a multi-target synergistic pathway. The absence of any component led to a significant decrease in overall benefits, fully demonstrating the technological advancement and formula innovation of this invention, providing a reliable solution for improving the reproductive efficiency of breeding boars.

Claims

1. A feed additive for improving boar semen based on a compound of Herba Epimedii, characterized in that, The improved feed additive is composed of active ingredients in the following weight parts: Herba Epimedii extract 15-35 parts, Salvia miltiorrhiza extract 10-25 parts, Rehmannia glutinosa extract 8-20 parts, Caulis Sargentodoxae extract 5-15 parts, vitamin E 0.1-0.8 parts, and organic zinc 0.05-0.2 parts.

2. The improved feed supplement as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The Herba Epimedii fine powder is passed through an 80-100 mesh sieve, and the content of icariin is ≥1.0-1.5%; The Salvia miltiorrhiza fine powder is passed through an 80-100 mesh sieve, and the content of tanshinone IIA is ≥0.2-0.3%; The Rehmannia glutinosa fine powder is passed through an 80-100 mesh sieve, and the content of catalpol is ≥0.5-0.8%; The sterilized Caulis Sargentodoxae powder is passed through a 100 mesh sieve, and the content of sargentine is ≥2.0-3.0%.

3. The improved feed supplement as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The organic zinc is zinc methionine or zinc yeast, and the ratio of the content of zinc element to the mass of the improved feed additive is 5-15 mg / kg.

4. The improved feed supplement as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The improved feed additive further comprises a feed-grade carrier composed of defatted rice bran and bentonite in a weight ratio of 2-3:1, and the carrier accounts for 20-40% of the total weight of the improved feed additive.

5. A method of preparing a herbal feed additive for boar semen improvement based on Herba Epimedii according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The method comprises the following steps: (1) separately extracting Herba Epimedii, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Rehmannia glutinosa, and Caulis Sargentodoxae to obtain extract solutions; (2) combining the extract solutions and concentrating to a relative density of 1.10-1.25; (3) spray-drying the extract solutions to obtain a composite extract powder; (4) three-dimensionally mixing the composite extract powder with vitamin E and organic zinc for 10-15 min; (5) sieving and packaging to obtain the Herba Epimedii compound-based improved feed additive for boar semen.

6. The production method according to claim 5, wherein In step (1), the separate extraction specifically comprises: refluxing extraction of Herba Epimedii and Salvia miltiorrhiza with 60-75% ethanol for 1-3 times, and the ethanol extraction conditions are: a material-to-liquid ratio of 1:8-12 w / v, and each extraction for 1.5-2 h; Rehmannia glutinosa and Caulis Sargentodoxae are extracted with warm water at 40-60°C, and the water extraction conditions are: a material-to-liquid ratio of 1:10-15 w / v, and an extraction time of 3-4 h.

7. The production method according to claim 5, wherein In step (2), the concentration temperature is 50-70°C.

8. The production method according to claim 5, wherein In step (3), the spray-drying inlet temperature is 160-180°C, and the outlet temperature is 70-85°C; in step (4), the three-dimensional mixing is further added with a feed-grade carrier, and the carrier accounts for 20-40% of the total weight; in step (5), the sieving is performed with a 60 mesh sieve.

9. Use of the Herba Epimedii compound-based improved feed additive for boar semen as claimed in any one of claims 1-4 or prepared by the preparation method as claimed in any one of claims 5-8 in the preparation of a boar reproductive performance improvement feed.

10. Use according to claim 9, wherein the compound is ###0002### The boar reproductive performance improvement feed is added at 0.5-1.5 g / kg of the boar reproductive performance improvement feed per unit of boar weight per day, and is used continuously for 20-30 days during the breeding period; The final concentration of the components in the daily ration based on the Herba Epimedii compound-based improved feed additive for boar semen is: icariin 20-30 mg / kg, tanshinone IIA 1-5 mg / kg, catalpol 1-2 mg / kg, sargentine 1-2 mg / kg, vitamin E 6-10 mg / kg, and zinc 1-3 mg / kg.

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