Effect of Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) on milk production and Immune- modulation in Karan Fries crossbred cows

Abstract

The effects of prepartum, Shatavari root powder supplementation on postpartum dry matter intake (DMI), plasma metabolites, milk production, composition and reproductive performance was studied in cross bred cows. Advance pregnant cows were divided based on most probable milk production ability, body weight and parity into a control non-supplemented, NS group (n=5) and an experimental Shatavari supplemented, ARS group (n=5). ARS group cows were fed Shatavari root power@100 mg/kg live body weight once in the morning from -60 days till parturition, while NS group cows served as control. The milk yield was significantly more (P<0.01) in ARS group than the NS group. Colostrum protein, total solids, SNF (P<0.05) and total immunoglobulin level was higher (P<0.01) in ARS group in comparison to NS group. Cows of ARS group took less time to expel placental membranes (P<0.05) and had less service period and service/ conception (P<0.05) than the NS group. It was concluded that prepartum supplementation of Shatavari significantly increased milk yield, colostrums total immunoglobulin and reduced total milk cholesterol, service period and service/conception in ensuing lactation.