Herbal product evaluation for sow farrowing stress and litter weight.

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Evaluation of herbal product in the management of farrowing stress in sows and improving litter weight
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Original source:

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Author:

M. Kalyana Chakravarthi, K. Ravikanth, Shivi Maini and Ankush Reothia


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Evaluation of herbal product in the management of farrowing stress in sows and improving litter weight

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study investigated the effects of a herbal product, Stresomix, on farrowing stress in sows and its potential to enhance litter weight. A total of 20 sows in late gestation were divided into two groups: a control group with no treatment and a treatment group that received Stresomix for 10 days prior to farrowing and for six weeks postpartum. The research aimed to assess various outcomes, such as piglet weight, litter size, mortality rates, and milk production, in order to evaluate the benefits of herbal supplementation in pig farming.

Impact on Piglet Weight and Litter Size

One of the key findings of the study was the improvement in mean piglet weight and average litter size in the group supplemented with Stresomix. Specifically, the mean weight of piglets in the Stresomix group was 1.07 kg, compared to 0.90 kg in the control group, representing an increase of 18.8%. Furthermore, the average litter size was also higher in the treatment group, with 8 piglets per sow, compared to 7.7 in the control group. This increase in weight and litter size suggests that the herbal components of Stresomix may effectively reduce maternal stress and improve developmental outcomes for the offspring.

Reduction in Mortality Rates

Another significant aspect of the study was the reduction in mortality rates among the piglets. The findings revealed that the mortality rate at birth was 19.48% in the control group, while it dropped to 10% in the Stresomix group. Additionally, during the pre-weaning period, the mortality rate was significantly lower in the treatment group (5.55%) compared to the control group (14.52%). This reduction in mortality can be attributed to the immunomodulatory properties of the herbal ingredients present in Stresomix, thereby enhancing piglet survivability.

Milk Production Enhancement

The research also evaluated the impact of Stresomix on the milk production of sows. The average milk yield recorded in the Stresomix supplemented group was 131.5 liters over two months, significantly higher than the 103.5 liters noted in the control group. This increase in milk production is particularly crucial, as a higher intake of colostrum contributes to the overall health and survival rate of newborn piglets. The herbal component Withania somnifera was identified as a likely contributing factor to this increase, enhancing milk synthesis in the mammary glands.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the supplementation of sows with Stresomix demonstrated a promising effect on reducing farrowing stress and improving litter outcomes. The study highlighted improvements in mean piglet weight, a reduction in mortality rates, and enhanced milk production in the supplemented group compared to controls. Overall, these results suggest that incorporating herbal products like Stresomix can play a vital role in boosting productivity and welfare in swine production systems.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the purpose of the study on Stresomix?

The study aimed to evaluate the impact of the herbal product Stresomix on managing farrowing stress in sows and improving litter weight, thereby enhancing piglet survival rates.

How were the sows divided in the study?

Twenty sows in late gestation were randomly assigned into two groups: a control group with no treatment and a treatment group supplemented with Stresomix for ten days before farrowing and six weeks post-farrowing.

What improvements were observed in the Stresomix group?

The Stresomix group showed an 18.8% increase in mean piglet weight, higher average litter size, and a decrease in mortality rates during birth and pre-weaning periods compared to the control group.

What was the average milk yield in both groups?

In the Stresomix supplemented group, the average milk yield was 131.5 liters, while the control group's average was 103.5 liters, indicating a significant increase in milk production.

What herbs are included in the Stresomix formulation?

Stresomix includes various herbs, such as Withania somnifera and Ocimum sanctum, which are believed to help alleviate stress in sows and enhance their reproductive performance.

What are the implications of this study for pig farming?

The study suggests that using herbal supplements like Stresomix can improve piglet survival rates, increase litter size, and enhance productivity in pig farming by alleviating sow stress.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Herbal product evaluation for sow farrowing stress and litter weight.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Birth:
Birth is a critical phase in the life of piglets, marking the transition from a dependent prenatal environment to neonatal independence. Factors influencing birth weight, vitality, and mortality rates directly affect piglet health, survival, and growth potential, making it a significant focus in pig farming management and practices.

2) Milk:
Milk is vital for piglet nutrition, providing essential nutrients and antibodies necessary for their growth and immunity. The study highlighted the importance of increased milk yield through Stresomix supplementation, demonstrating how it relates to piglet survival and overall productivity in swine farming.

3) Post:
Post refers to the period following key events, such as postpartum, which is crucial for sow recovery and piglet growth. The study's focus on post-farrowing milk production emphasized its impact on the health and survivability of the piglets during their early development phases.

4) India:
India is the geographical context of the study, influencing pig farming practices, available resources, and the application of herbal products like Stresomix. The cultural and agricultural aspects of India shape the methods used in managing sows and enhancing piglet survival rates.

5) Table:
Tables in scientific literature organize data succinctly, allowing for efficient comparison of results. The study utilized tables to present statistical findings, such as mean piglet weights and mortality rates, enabling readers to easily interpret the impact of Stresomix supplementation on sow productivity.

6) Study (Studying):
The study systematically evaluated the effects of Stresomix on farrowing stress and piglet outcomes among sows. The empirical research involved controlled trials and statistical analysis, aimed at understanding the benefits of herbal supplementation in enhancing reproductive efficiency and piglet survival in swine farming.

7) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, is a key herbal ingredient in Stresomix that is linked to stress reduction in sows. Its inclusion in the study underscores the role of traditional herbal remedies in modern veterinary practices aimed at improving livestock productivity and welfare.

8) Veterinary science:
Veterinary science is the discipline focused on animal health management and welfare. The study contributes to this field by examining the effectiveness of herbal products in swine health, aligning with modern practices seeking alternative solutions to traditional pharmaceuticals for better animal care.

9) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, or holy basil, is another significant herbal component in Stresomix known for its potential benefits to animal health, including stress modulation. The presence of this herb in the study emphasizes the exploration of herbal remedies as a method to improve livestock management and productivity.

10) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of phenomena through observation and experimentation. The research presented follows scientific methodologies to test hypotheses about herbal supplementation, contributing to the body of knowledge about animal husbandry practices and enhancing sustainability in pig farming.

11) Phyllanthus emblica:
Phyllanthus emblica, or Indian gooseberry, is noted for its immunomodulatory properties and its inclusion in the herbal supplement evaluated in the study. Its effectiveness in enhancing piglet survivability highlights the role of traditional ingredients in modern veterinary formulations aimed at improving livestock health.

12) Discussion:
The discussion section of research papers interprets findings and relates them to existing knowledge. It contextualizes the study results, providing insights into the implications of Stresomix supplementation for pig farmer practices, and connects the observed benefits to broader themes in animal husbandry and welfare.

13) Activity:
Activity in this context refers to the actions and functions of ingredients in the herbal products evaluated. It encompasses how these herbal components influence physiological responses in sows and piglets, ultimately playing a role in improving health outcomes during critical life stages.

14) Crushing:
Crushing refers to the risk of piglet deaths due to the sow inadvertently laying on them, especially during stress-filled situations like farrowing. Reducing stress through supplementation can mitigate this risk, thereby improving piglet survivability, a focus of the study.

15) Kalyana:
Kalyana Chakravarthi is one of the authors of the study, contributing to the research on the effects of herbal products on sow management. His involvement underscores the collaborative effort in veterinary science research aimed at enhancing animal health and productivity.

16) Quality:
Quality pertains to the health and viability of piglets produced, which can influence overall herd productivity and farm profitability. The study aims to improve litter quality through stress reduction strategies, emphasizing its significance in sustainable animal agriculture.

17) Andhra (Amdhra):
Andhra refers to Andhra Pradesh, the Indian state where the study was conducted. This regional focus is significant as it highlights local agricultural practices and conditions that influence pig farming, breaking ground for context-specific research within veterinary and agricultural sciences.

18) Mandal:
Mandal refers to the administrative division in which the field trial was conducted. Understanding local governance structures and their relation to farming practices is critical for implementing agricultural research and enhancing livestock management strategies tailored to regional needs.

19) Farmer:
The farmer is the primary stakeholder in the outcomes of this study. Enhancing piglet survival, growth, and overall productivity through research directly impacts their livelihoods, informing effective strategies to optimize health and economic viability in livestock production.

20) Kadapa:
Kadapa is the district in Andhra Pradesh where the research was conducted, illustrating local agricultural practices and challenges in pig farming. District-specific studies like this can yield valuable information for farmers operating under similar conditions, leading to improved animal welfare and farm productivity.

21) Shivi (Sivi):
Shivi Maini is another author contributing to the research on farrowing stress management in sows. The collaboration of multiple researchers underscores the importance of diverse expertise in achieving comprehensive insights in the field of veterinary science and pig husbandry.

22) Field:
Field in this context pertains to the practical application of the study’s findings in real-world pig farming scenarios. The field trial approach emphasizes hands-on research that directly investigates the effectiveness of herbal management strategies in improving animal welfare during farrowing.

23) Death:
Death, particularly in newborn piglets, is a critical concern for farmers and swine production. The study addresses reducing mortality rates associated with farrowing stress, aiming to enhance piglet survivability, which is crucial for improving production efficiency and profitability.

24) Meat:
Meat is the end product of pig farming, with quality and yield being primary objectives for farmers. Improving sow productivity through the research contributes indirectly to better meat production outcomes, emphasizing the interconnectedness between animal health and agricultural economics.

25) Life:
Life signifies the entire span of the piglets from birth to weaning, highlighting the importance of health management at every stage. The study’s focus on improving survival rates speaks to the overarching goal of enhancing livestock life quality and productivity.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Herbal product evaluation for sow farrowing stress and litter weight.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Control group, Gestation period, Experimental design, Neonatal health, Birth weight, Immunomodulatory activity, Herbal product, Passive Immunity, Nutritional health.

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