Effect of Fenugreek (Methi) seed supplementation on performance of lactating Murrah buffaloes

Abstract

Twelve lactating Murrah buffaloes were randomly distributed into 2 groups consisting of six animals in each group i.e. control group without any fenugreek supplementation and treatment group supplemented with soaked fenugreek seeds 50 g per animal per day. All animals were maintained under same managemental conditions. The observations were recorded 3 months (90 days) postpartum. Parameters observed during the study period were milk production, milk composition (fat, protein, lactose, total solid and Solid Not Fat) and blood biochemical parameters (blood glucose, serum calcium, serum cholesterol, serum total protein, serum globulin and serum albumin). The fenugreek supplemented group had higher daily milk yield compared to control group, but there was no significant difference in daily milk yield between the two groups. The average total milk yield (litres) of lactating Murrah buffaloes upto 12^th week 28.52% higher in teatment group than the control group, but the difference was not significant. There was no significant difference in milk components like fat, protein, lactose, SNF and Total Solid in lactating Murrah buffaloes. There was also no significant difference in average serum calcium, serum cholesterol, serum total protein, serum albumin and serum globulin concentrations between the groups. The blood glucose concentration was significantly (P<0.05) lower in the fenugreek supplemented group compared to the control group.