Effect of using anise and dill seeds as feed additives on performance of lactating buffaloes

Abstract EN

The medicinal seeds of Pimpinella anisum (anise) and Anethum graveolens (dill) as feed additives in lactating buffalo's rations were nutritionally evaluated through digestibility and lactation trials.

Eight lactating buffaloes with average live body weight of 575 ± 10 kg (three in their 3rd and the rest in 4th lactation seasons) were used.

Lactation trial was initiated at 45±3 days post-partum, where each buffalo served as its own control and the experimental rations were fed in successive duration.

The treatments were (R1) control, (R2) control + 50 g anise seeds, (R3) control + 50 g dill seeds and (R4) control+25 g anise seeds+25g dill seeds.

The control ration consisted of 50 % concentrate mixture + 30 % be seem hay + 20 % wheat straw.

The results revealed that buffaloes fed rations containing medicinal seeds showed the highest values of digestibility coefficients and feeding values compared with those fed the control ration.

Also, R4 showed the highest milk yield and its composition followed by R3, R2 and R1 (control ration).

From economical point of view the medicinal seeds containing rations reduced feeding costs needed to produce 1 kg 4 % FCM especially those received 25 g anise seeds + 25 g dill seeds rations (R4).