Effect of Some Medicinal Plants Seeds in the Rations on the Productive Performance of Lactating Buffaloes

Impacts of thyme and/or garlic oils on growth, immunity, antioxidant and net farm income in Damascus goats

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of thyme and/or garlic oil administration on growth performance, immunity, antioxidant, biochemical parameters, and net farm income of Damascus goats. Forty weaned Damascus goats were allocated into four groups. The first group was the control without oral administration, while the 2nd (Th), 3rd (Gr), and 4th (ThGr) groups were orally administrated by (2 ml/goat/day) of thyme oil, garlic oil and their mixture (1:1), respectively during the whole experiment period. The final body weight of goats orally administered oil mixture was the heaviest group, it was 10, 4.5 and 3.5% than the control, Th. and Gr. groups, respectively with better feed conversion ratio and high net farm income. Goats of ThGr. group revealed the best immunity, antioxidant and general health condition than the control group with 50% reduction of MDA. Liver (AST, 33% and ALT, 38%) and kidney (creatinine, 88%) functions improved by oils mixtures orally administration compared with the control group. LDL, triglyceride and cholesterol were reduced by 47, 33 and 21% compared with the control group, respectively. Thus, mixture oil administration (thyme and garlic at the ratio of 1:1, 2 ml/goat/day) improved growth (10%), antioxidant status (MDA 50%), liver (AST, 33% and ALT, 38%), kidney function (creatinine, 88%), the FCR (17.4%) and net farm income (21%), of Damascus goats.

Nutrient utilization, growth performance, and antioxidative status of Barki lambs fed diets supplemented with black (Nigella sativa) and rocket (Eruca sativa) seeds

The current study aimed to determine the polyphenol compounds in Nigella sativa (NS) and Eruca sativa (ES) seeds, and evaluate the impact of their addition either as a sole additive or in combination on the growth performance, digestibility, some rumen and blood parameters and antioxidative status of Barki lambs. Forty-eight male lambs (27.18 ± 0.22 kg, 5-6 months), were divided into 4 balanced groups. The experimental diets were randomly distributed to the control group (CON); fed alfalfa hay plus concentrate feed mixture at a ratio of 30:70% without additives, while, NSD, ESD, and NESD groups: fed CON diet plus 2% NS, 2% ES or 1% NS + 1% ES, respectively as a ratio from total mixed ration (TMR). Results indicated that rutin and catechin were the most phenolic compounds observed either in NS or ES seeds. The NS and ES-supplemented groups recorded the highest (P < 0.05) values for dry matter digestibility, nutritive values, average daily gain, and the best feed conversion ratio. However, growth performance, nutritive value, and all nutrient digestibility except for dry matter were not significantly altered with the NESD group. Concentrations of ruminal NH3-N and TVFA were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced with the NESD group, with no significant differences in pH values among different groups. Values of blood parameters showed significant increases in WBCs, PCV, and T-AOC, and decreases in cholesterol, triglycerides, and MDA with the addition of NS and ES seeds or both. Therefore, the addition of NS and ES seeds is recommended to improve lambs' health and antioxidant status.

The effect of fenugreek seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum) supplementation on the performance and milk yield characteristics of dairy goats

The use of fenugreek seed as a galactagogue has been investigated in ruminants. However, only a few studies have analyzed the effects of fenugreek seed on the milk fatty acid composition. To the authors' best knowledge, none of these studies have investigated the effects of fenugreek seed on milk volatile compounds. The objective of this study, which lasted 8 weeks, was to determine the effects of fenugreek seed supplementation on the performance, milk fatty acid profile, and milk volatile profile of goats. A total of 20 Turkish Saanen dairy goats that were mid-lactation were used in the study. This study was carried out with two homogeneous groups: the control group (CON) and fenugreek group (FG). Both groups were fed a total mixed ration (TMR), but the FG treatment had their diet supplemented with 0.1 kg d- 1 of fenugreek seed per animal. The feed intake, live weight, milk yield, milk chemical composition, serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentration, milk fatty acid profile, and milk volatile compound profile were determined. The feed intake, live weight gain, and milk yield of the goats did not significantly differ between the CON and FG treatments ( P > 0.05 ), whereas the milk fat concentration increased ( P = 0.05 ) and the serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations decreased ( P < 0.05 ) in the FG treatment. The unsaturated fatty acid concentration in milk ( P < 0.05 ) was also enhanced in the FG treatment. In addition, the FG treatment increased 2-propanone, 2-butanone, benzene, 1-methyl-3-(1-methylethyl), and eucalyptol concentrations in milk ( P < 0.05 ). In conclusion, the supplementation of goats' diets with fenugreek seed during the mid-lactation period did not affect their performance and improved the unsaturated fatty acid profile of their milk. Of particular importance, we have also detected an increase in the 2-propanone concentration in milk following fenugreek supplementation.

Nitrogen Uptake, Use Efficiency, and Productivity of Nigella sativa L. in Response to Fertilization and Plant Density

Nigella sativa L. has been recognized as one of the most important medicinal plants in many parts of the world for centuries. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effects of fertilization and plant density on nitrogen uptake, utilization efficiency, and productivity of N. sativa under Mediterranean conditions. The three-year experiment was set up in a split-plot design with three replications. There were 2 plant densities; 200 and 300 plants m−2 with 4 fertilization levels: control, seaweed compost, farmyard manure and inorganic fertilizer. The highest seed yield (749–840 kg ha−1) was found in plants subjected to low-density and inorganic fertilization. The seed nitrogen (N) uptake as well as the nitrogen harvest index (NHI) were positively affected by the increase of available nitrogen and negatively by the increase of plant density, with their highest values recorded in the low-density and inorganic fertilization. In conclusion, plant densities greater than 200 plants m−2 result in higher crop growth but lower seed yield and decreased nitrogen uptake and use efficiency in N. sativa seeds, whereas the application of inorganic fertilizers increases crop yield, nitrogen uptake, and utilization efficiency because these fertilizers present higher nitrogen levels with higher solubility and thus faster availability for the crop in comparison with organic fertilizers.

Influence of dietary phytogenic feed additives on lactation performance, methane emissions and health status of Murrah buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)

BACKGROUND

Several feed additives have been used in recent past to reduce enteric methane production in ruminants. But most of them also inhibit feed digestibility and rumen fermentation, thereby lowering animal performance. Phytogenic feed additives are gaining importance owing to their safety in regard to human health issues. The present study examined the effect of dietary supplementation of phytogenic feed additive containing a blend of poplar (Populus deltoides) and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora) leaves on feed utilization, milk production, methane emissions and health status of Murrah buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis).

RESULTS

The daily milk yield, 6% fat corrected milk yield, and fat-protein corrected milk yield were increased (P < 0.05) in phytogenic composite feed additive (PCFA)-supplemented buffaloes. A decrease (37.3%) in methane concentration in exhaled air of supplemented buffaloes was evident. The digestibility coefficient of dry matter, organic matter and neutral detergent fibre was increased (P < 0.05) in PCFA-fed buffaloes without affecting feed intake. Total digestible nutrient content of the ration fed to buffaloes of the PCFA group was significantly (P < 0.05) increased. The buffaloes fed PCFA exhibited an enhanced cell-mediated and humoral immune response.

CONCLUSION

A discernible positive impact was evident on overall performances and health status along with lowered methane production of buffaloes fed (15 g kg^-1 dry matter intake) a blend of phytogenic feed additive composed of leaves of poplar (P. deltoides) and eucalyptus (E. citriodora). © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Role of Caraway, Fennel and Melissa Addition on Productive Performance of Lactating Frisian Cows

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The use of aromatic and herbal plants as a feed additive became a new trend in feeding dairy cows to enhance animal productivity. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of adding some herbal and aromatic plants (Melissa, Fennel and Caraway) at 0.7% of total DM of rations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three herbal plants were evaluated in this study (melissa, fennel and caraway) by using thirteen Holstein Friesian cows. Cows were in 3rd and 5th lactation seasons were used as one experimental group by swing over design in lactation experiment (control then T1 then T2 then T3 then control). Nutrients digestibility, milk production, milk composition and blood constituents were determined.

RESULTS

Data indicated that nutrients digestibility and nutritive value were improved with herbal plants addition, especially with caraway treatment which recorded significantly (p>0.05) the highest values. In the same trend, Actual milk yield, 4% FCM and fat content were significantly (p>0.05) increased when cows fed rations supplemented with fennel and caraway. The addition of melissa decreased the concentration of Total Saturated Fatty Acids (TSFA) in the milk. Normal ranges for blood parameters with no negative impact on animal health were observed with experimental rations.

CONCLUSION

It could be concluded that caraway addition at 0.7% of the total dry matter of dairy rations, has a great potential to improve animal productivity and enhance the quality of milk fatty acids profile.

Fenugreek Stimulates the Expression of Genes Involved in Milk Synthesis and Milk Flow through Modulation of Insulin/GH/IGF-1 Axis and Oxytocin Secretion

We previously demonstrated galactagogue effect of fenugreek in a rat model of lactation challenge, foreshadowing its use in women's breastfeeding management. To assess longitudinal molecular mechanisms involved in milk synthesis/secretion in dams submitted to fenugreek supplementation, inguinal mammary, pituitary glands and plasma were isolated in forty-three rats nursing large 12 pups-litters and assigned to either a control (CTL) or a fenugreek-supplemented (FEN) diet during lactation. RT-PCR were performed at days 12 and 18 of lactation (L12 and L18) and the first day of involution (Inv1) to measure the relative expression of genes related to both milk synthesis and its regulation in the mammary gland and lactogenic hormones in the pituitary gland. Plasma hormone concentrations were measured by ELISA. FEN diet induced 2- to 3-times higher fold change in relative expression of several genes related to macronutrient synthesis (Fasn, Acaca, Fabp3, B4galt1, Lalba and Csn2) and energy metabolism (Cpt1a, Acads) and in IGF-1 receptor in mammary gland, mainly at L12. Pituitary oxytocin expression and plasma insulin concentration (+77.1%) were also significantly increased. Altogether, these findings suggest fenugreek might extend duration of peak milk synthesis through modulation of the insulin/GH/IGF-1 axis and increase milk ejection by activation of oxytocin secretion.

Abatement of enteric methane production from lactating Murrah buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) with improving production performance and immune status through dietary supplementation of composite feed additive

Ruminant livestock production processes are the major sources of methane production in agriculture sector triggering global environmental pollution. Above 90% of world buffalo population present in Asian countries, India ranks first and contributes significantly to the environmental pollution by enteric methane emissions. In this study, we examined the effect of dietary composite feed additive supplementation on ruminal methane production, nutrient utilization, milk production and immune status of buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). Eighteen lactating Murrah (Bubalus bubalis) buffaloes at early stage of lactation were divided into two groups of nine animals and fed a composite feed additive [consisted of (%, w/w) dried and ground leaves of Cordia dichotoma and Holoptelea integrifolia, 31.4 each; garlic oil, 0.6; sodium nitrate, 3.1; magnesium sulphate, 8.4; mustard oil, 12.6 and cottonseed oil, 12.5] which contained an ideal combinations of methane inhibitors, alternate hydrogen sinks and rumen stimulating agents to treatment (CFA) group animals along with basal feed of chaffed green sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) fodder, chaffed wheat straw and concentrate mixture for maintenance and milk production. The results showed a decrease (44.6%) in methane concentration in exhaled air of CFA group buffaloes with increase (p < 0.05) in digestibility of feed in comparison to control (CON). Total digestible nutrient (TDN) content of the ration fed to buffaloes of CFA group was significantly (p < 0.05) increased. The daily milk yield, 6% fat corrected milk (FCM) yield and immune response were also increased (p < 0.05) in CFA group. The study suggests that the supplementation of composite feed additive was effective to reduce enteric methane emissions and improvement in production performance and immune status of buffaloes.

Effect of molasses based multi-nutrient herbal supplements on hematobiochemicals, serum lipid, antioxidants and hormonal profile in buffalo calves

Effect of molasses based multinutrients herbal supplements (MMS) containing ground fenugreek seed and deoiled mahua seed cake at two different ratios (1:1; MMS-I or 1:3; MMS-II) on hematobiochemicals, serum lipid, antioxidants and hormonal profile in male buffalo calves was assessed for 9 months. Fifteen male Murrah buffalo calves (10 to 15 months of age and mean body wt. 234–236 kg) were randomly distributed into 3 groups (5 each) according to Randomized Block Design (RBD). All animals were fed individually with conventional concentrate mixture, available green fodder (3–4 kg DM/d) and wheat straw ad lib. to meet out nutrients requirement. While animals in control group (C) were fed no supplement but animal’s diet in group T1 and T2 supplemented with MMS-I and MMS-II, respectively at 44 g/100 kg body weight or 200 g /100 kg metabolic body weight (kgW0.75). The values of Hb, PCV, RBC, WBC, platelets count, serum total protein, uric acid, creatinine, urea level, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and T3 hormone level were comparable among 3 groups. Serum glucose, globulin, antioxidants and testosterone levels were significantly increased but serum albumin, A/G ratio, low density lipoprotein (LDL) and cortisol levels were significantly decreased among supplemented groups as compared to control group and hormone T4 was significantly higher in T1 group. The results showed that supplementation of MMS-I and MMS- II in the diet of buffalo calves improved serum glucose, globulin, antioxidants, T4 and testosterone levels but lower albumin, A/G ratio, LDL and cortisol.

Effect of molasses based multi-nutrient herbal supplements on the performance of buffalo calves

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of molasses based multi-nutrient herbal supplements (MMS) containing ground fenugreek seed and de-oiled mahua seed cake at two different ratios (1:1; MMS-I and 1:3; MMS-II) on growth performance, nutrient utilization and immune response of male buffalo calves. Fifteen male Murrah buffalo calves (10 to 15 months of age and mean body wt. 234–236 kg) were randomly distributed into 3 groups of 5 each. All animals were supplied with conventional concentrate mixture, green forages (3–4 kg DM/d) and wheat straw ad lib. to meet out nutrient requirement. Animals in control group were not fed supplement but animals in group T1 and T2 were fed MMS-I and MMS-II, respectively @ 200 g/100 kg metabolic body weight (kg W0.75). The intake and digestibility of DM, OM, EE, NDF, ADF, hemicelluloses, cellulose and purine derivatives in urine were comparable among 3 groups. Digestibility of crude protein (CP) was higher in supplemented groups (T1 and T2) than control. Total dry matter intake, body weight gain, average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) during 270 days were comparable among 3 groups. Both cellular and humoral immune response improved in T1 and T2 groups. The results revealed that molasses based multi-nutrient herbal supplement containing fenugreek and DMSC improved the growth performance, nutrient utilization and immune responses.

Effect of fenugreek seed supplementation on lactation performance of Surti buffaloes

The present experiment was aimed to evaluate the effect of fenugreek seed (FS) supplementation on lactation performance of buffaloes. Eighteen lactating Surti buffaloes were divided into 3 homogenous groups and offered with basal diet along with supplementation of overnight soaked fenugreek seed @ 0 (CON), 1.5 (FEN-1.5) and 3.0% (FEN–3.0) of total diet for 10 weeks. The daily milk yield from animals was recorded. At the end of experiment, milk samples were subjected for their constituent analysis followed by sensory evaluation. Cost of milk production was also worked out. Supplementation of FS resulted into an improvement in milk production, which was more evident at lower dose (FEN-1.5). The constituent composition of milk did not exhibit any alterations among different dietary groups. However, sensory attributes like flavour and palatability of milk showed an encouraging trend in supplemented groups. Cost of milk production was comparable across the groups. The present finding concluded that supplementation of fenugreek seeds (1.5%) in the ration of Surti buffaloes improved the milk yield with favourable impact on its sensory qualities.

Effect of ground fenugreek seeds (<i>Trigonella foenum-graecum</i>) on feed consumption and milk performance in Anatolian water buffaloes

Abstract. In this study, the effects of a diet including fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed on feed consumption and milk performance were examined. A total of 24 buffaloes were randomly divided into two groups (12 animals each). The diet containing ground fenugreek seed (GFS) improved total dry matter (13.17–14.00 kg day−1) (P < 0.05) and daily concentrated feed consumption (2.90–3.81 kg day−1) (P < 0.01) and significantly increased milk production (7.34–8.01 kg day−1) (P < 0.01) in Anatolian water buffaloes (AWBs). In future work, the use of other herbs in AWB may be investigated.