Therapeutic effect of traditionally prepared Mattha/ buttermilk and Chedu/ ghee residue on parasitic load and body coat of Murrah buffalo calves

Abstract

As per Indian system of medicine (Ayurveda), Mattha is helpful in maintaining gut health, mitigation of kappa and vata and preventing obesity. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of mattha and chedu on parasitic load of Murrah calves. 1-year-old twenty growing buffalo calves with approximately similar weight were selected and divided into four groups having five animals in each group. Following treatments were offered: -T 0 (control), T 1 (application of Chedu on their body), T 2 (Administration of Mattha @ 2% of body weight with salt @ 0.5% of Mattha), T 3 (Administration of Mattha and application of Chedu). Fecal samples were collected directly from rectum or freshly voided feces in sterilized poly bags, twice a month from buffalo calves to check the internal parasitic load. Number of ticks, were counted in most heavily infested area i.e. inguinal region, brisket region, neck region, tail fold, and base of the ear after every 4 days. From 30 th day to 90 th day there was a significant difference observed in terms of eggs per gram (EPG) in treatment groups T 2 and T 3 with respect to control group indicating lower parasitic load in treated groups. Application of chedu in T 1 and T 3 group resulted in gradual decrease of tick load which depicts therapeutic value of chedu and combination of mathha and chedu on ticks. Also chedu treated groups showed increased lusture of body coat which is desirable in terms of aesthetic value and wellbeing of buffalo calves.