Evaluation of Neem Leaf Supplementation on Peak Yield and Persistency in Lactating Sahiwal Cows

Abstract

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf supplementation on peak milk yield and lactation persistency in Sahiwal cows. Twelve cows were randomly divided into two groups: a control group and a neem leaf supplemented group, comprising six animals each. The experimental group received neem leaf supplementation, while the control group was maintained on a basal diet. Peak milk yield and lactation persistency were recorded and analyzed statistically.The mean peak milk yield was numerically higher in the neem leaf supplemented group (11.13 ± 1.26 kg) than in the control group (8.27 ± 0.64 kg). Similarly, lactation persistency was greater in the neem-supplemented cows (73.83 ± 2.48 days) compared to the control cows (66.50 ± 3.32 days). However, the differences observed in both parameters were statistically non-significant (P > 0.05). Despite the lack of statistical significance, the higher numerical values obtained in the neem-supplemented group suggest a favourable effect of neem leaves on milk production and maintenance of lactation.It may be concluded that neem leaf supplementation has the potential to improve peak milk yield and lactation persistency in Sahiwal cows, although further studies with larger sample sizes are required to confirm these effects.