Partially substituting roughage with traditional Chinese herbal medicine residues in the diet of goats improved feed quality, growth performance, hematology, and rumen microbial profiles
2024

Using Chinese Herbal Medicine Residues in Goat Diets

Sample size: 22 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Long Yong, Zhang Naifeng, Bi Yanliang, Ma Tao, Paengkoum Pramote, Xin Jiamin, Xiao Wen, Zhao Yanpin, Yuan Chao, Wang Defeng, Yang Yang

Primary Institution: Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hypothesis

The study aimed to reveal the effect of traditional Chinese herbal medicine residues on growth performance, hematology, ruminal microbiota, and economic benefits of Guizhou black male goats.

Conclusion

Incorporating 40% traditional Chinese herbal medicine residues into goat diets improved feed quality, growth performance, and immunity without negative effects.

Supporting Evidence

  • Goats fed TCHMR had a 25.53% increase in average daily gain compared to the control group.
  • TCHMR improved the apparent digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, and neutral detergent fiber.
  • Serum levels of growth hormone and immunoglobulins were significantly higher in the TCHMR group.
  • TCHMR reduced feeding costs and improved feed conversion ratios.

Takeaway

Feeding goats some leftover herbs from Chinese medicine can help them grow better and stay healthy.

Methodology

The study involved 22 Guizhou black male goats divided into two groups, one fed a traditional diet and the other supplemented with 40% herbal medicine residues, over a 75-day period.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in the selection of goats and the experimental design could affect the results.

Limitations

The long-term effects of TCHMR on goat health and rumen function need further investigation.

Participant Demographics

22 Guizhou black male goats, aged 6 months, with an initial weight of 21.77 ± 0.85 kg.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/s12917-024-04412-1

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