Given the increasing global demand for animal protein and the need for sustainable aquaculture practices, the use of natural feed additives has gained considerable attention. The study investigated the synergistic effects of dietary propolis and algae supplementation on growth performance, hematological and biochemical indices, immune response, and tissue health of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Fish were randomly assigned to ten groups: four levels of propolis (2, 4, 6, and 8 g/kg), four levels of algae (2, 4, 6, and 8 g/kg), , and a control group. The dietary supplementation of either propolis or algae (each at 6 g/kg) yielded the highest significant improvements in growth traits, including final body weight, specific growth rate, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05). Hematological parameters (RBCs, WBCs, hemoglobin, and hematocrit) were significantly enhanced, indicating improved blood health and immune activation. Furthermore, plasma biochemical indicators showed elevated total protein, albumin, and globulin levels, while hepatic enzymes (AST and ALT) were reduced, reflecting improved liver function and metabolic efficiency. Immune competence was also strengthened, as evidenced by significant increases in lysozyme activity, phagocytic activity, and antibody titers. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with either propolis or algae at 6 g/kg is an effective strategy to simultaneously improve growth performance, health, and immune competence in Nile tilapia. These findings highlight the potential of these natural feed additives as sustainable and eco-friendly strategies for advancing aquaculture productivity.

Gastrointestinal helminth infections in ruminants pose a serious threat to Indian livestock, with synthetic anthelmintics becoming increasingly ineffective due to resistance and cost barriers. This review systematically evaluates the anthelmintic potential of Indian medicinal plants as alternative therapies, emphasizing the distinction between in vitro and in vivo models. A total of 56 studies were included, predominantly in vitro, with only limited in vivo validation. The most frequently studied plant families include Apiaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Fabaceae. While many plant extracts demonstrated promising effects against helminths in screening assays using free-living organisms (e.g., Caenorhabditis elegans, Pheretima spp.), these findings cannot be directly equated with clinical efficacy. Our analysis underscores the need for biologically relevant models and standardized evaluation protocols. We highlight critical gaps in methodological rigor, model relevance, and regional specificity in helminth susceptibility. This review advocates for future research prioritizing in vivo trials, phytochemical characterization, and pharmacodynamic profiling to transition from preliminary screening to validated therapeutic applications.