Altered Hematological and Selected Serum and Rumen Constituents of Egyptian Rahmani Sheep Fed on Dried Chinese Herbal Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract Supplemented Ration

Abstract

A NATURAL herbal product well-known as Astragalus membranaceus root that is widely distributed in China; contains many biologically active components that are used for medicinal purposes. This study determined the value of supplementation Astragalus membranaceus root powder (AMP) to the daily feed on hematological constituents, rumen parameters, immunoglobulins, and antioxidant response in Egyptian Rahmani sheep. In addition to, the in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity study of AM extract. A total number of twenty-five Rahmani sheep were joined randomly in our study with average weight (60-70 kg) and age (5-6 years old). After 2 weeks of adaptation, sheep received 20 g/ animal/ day of (AMP) mixed with their daily feed for 28 days. Statistical significant increase in hematological components, leukocyte count, catalase activity, total antioxidant capacity, Immunoglobulin A, Immunoglobulin M, and Immunoglobulin G contents after 14 days and 28 days of the daily feed of 20g of AMP that enhanced by time with no difference in insulin level. In contrast, malondialdehyde showed a lower concentration on 14 and 28 days of supplementation with an increase in total volatile fatty acid and rumen ammonia nitrogen content after AMP fed on days 14, and 28 compared to zero days with enrichment in protozoal activity. The in-vitro study showed AMP possesses a potent anti-inflammatory activity.We concluded that, using AMP as a natural feed additive can enhance hematology and rumen parameters with improvement in immunity and antioxidant activity in Rahmani sheep. Also, it possesses anti-inflammatory activity.