Vol. 8, Special Issue 8, Part I (2024)

Abstract: The study involved twelve crossbred cows selected on the basis of lactation stage and milk yield, which were divided into two groups of six each viz. control (T₀) and treatment group (T₁). The cows from group T₀ (Control) received standard concentrate mixture and roughages as per the requirement of balanced ration. The group T₁ received same ration as that of group T₀ supplemented with herbal mixture @ 30 gm /day /animal. The herbal mixture consisted of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) 20 parts, Shatawari (Asparagus racemosus) 20 parts, Jivanti (Leptadenia reticulata) 20 parts, Amla (Emblica officinalis) 20 parts and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum) 20 parts. The experiment lasted for 13 weeks. The average daily milk yield and FCM yield, DMI, TDN and DCP intake of cows from treatment group (T₁) was significantly (p˂ 0.01) higher than control group. The efficiency of feed utilization in terms of DM, TDN and DCP required per kg of FCM yield produced was significantly (p˂ 0.01) better in group T₁ than control group. There was no significant difference in milk composition of both the groups with regard to milk fat, milk protein, total solids, SNF and lactose percentage. The average somatic cell count of milk of cows from treatment group were significantly (p<0.01) lower than control group. The digestibility coefficients for all the nutrients were higher in treatment group than control group which was also reflected in higher TDN and DCP % of the ration in supplemented group. The economics of the trial showed an extra profit of Rs. 9.30 in supplemented group over control group. Thus, it can be concluded that supplementation of herbal mixture @ 30 gm per day per cow is beneficial for improving performance of cows and such supplementation is also cost effective.