Effect of Tinospora cordifolia as phytogenic feed additive on performance parameters of sahiwal heifers

Abstract

Tinospora cordifolia stem powder (TCSP) is well known for its hepatoprotective, antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties and it could be used as a phytogenic feed additive to enhance the production and health response of ruminants. The study was conducted to determine the effects of TCSP supplementation on growth, blood biochemicals, immunity, antioxidant and endocrine parameters of growing Sahiwal heifers. Eighteen growing Sahiwal heifers were randomly allocated into three groups on body weight and age basis. Feeding regimen was similar in all the groups except that treatment groups were supplemented with 0.0 (CON), 0.5 (T1), and 1.0 (T2) percent of dry matter intake (DMI), TCSP in three respective groups, for 90 days period. Dietary supplementation of TCSP at different levels did not show any significant (P>0.05) effect on DMI, average daily gain, and feed conversion efficiency of growing heifers. Total cholesterol and triglycerides level were significantly lower (P<0.05) in the T2 group. SOD was significantly higher (P<0.001) whereas, LPO decreased linearly (P<0.05) in T2 group. Plasma total antioxidant status (TAS) also increased linearly (P<0.05) in T2 group. IgG levels increased linearly (P<0.001) in the T2 group; however, total Ig was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the treatment groups. No effect on the concentration of plasma IGF-1, T3 and T4 was reported. Hence, TCSP at a 1.0% level of inclusion could be used as a phytogenic feed additive to boost the health status in terms of improved immunity and antioxidant response in Sahiwal heifers.