Influence of Sapindus mukorossi (Reetha) as Herbal Feed Additive on Rumen Fermentation and Nutrient Digestibility in Rathi Calves

Sapindus mukorossi, a herbal plant source of saponin, was tested for its effects on protozoal number, ruminal ammonia production, digestibility of nutrients and growth in Rathi calves. Eight male Rathi calves of similar age (12–18 months) were divided into two groups. The animals in control group were fed wheat straw and concentrate in 60: 40 ratio in form of complete feed while animals in treated group were fed same ration as in control group but were also given S. mukorossi @ 3% of total ration as herbal additive. Final body weight (117.29 kg vs. 115.92 kg) and average daily gain (318.99 g vs. 275.83 g) were higher in treated group compared to control. Supplementation of S. mukorossi increased (P<0.01) digestibility of nutrients. Though N balance was numerically higher in treated group, however, difference was not statistically significant. S. mukorossi had defaunating effect without hampering dry matter intake. Rumen NH₃-N concentration was lower (P<0.05) in treated groups. Hence, incorporation of S. mukorossi @ 3% in diet as herbal feed additive improved the digestibility of nutrients and average daily gain in Rathi calves.