Effect of Adding Curcuma Longa L. Powder on the Colostrum, Milk Production and its Composition and Growth of Newborns in Awassi ewes

Abstract

In this study, 18 pregnant Awassi ewes were used to study the effect of different levels of turmeric in productive performance, ewes were divided into three equal groups. The three groups were fed six weeks before birth until weaning on a basal diet with a protein content of 14.46 and energy of 2583 kcal/kg. First group fed without additive (control), while turmeric powder was added to feed intake of the second and third groups by 5 and 10 g / day / ewe respectively. The results indicated that the use of turmeric powder 5g/day /ewe led to a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in the colostrum yield at the first day after lambing, actual milk production, percentage of protein and solids non-fat; and the body weights of lambs in weeks (8, 10 and 12). No significant differences were observed in the components of colostrum, and the ewes body weights.