The effect of fenugreek seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum) supplementation on the performance and milk yield characteristics of dairy goats

Abstract

Abstract. The use of fenugreek seed as a galactagogue has been investigated in ruminants. However, only a few studies have analyzed the effects of fenugreek seed on the milk fatty acid composition. To the authors' best knowledge, none of these studies have investigated the effects of fenugreek seed on milk volatile compounds. The objective of this study, which lasted 8 weeks, was to determine the effects of fenugreek seed supplementation on the performance, milk fatty acid profile, and milk volatile profile of goats. A total of 20 Turkish Saanen dairy goats that were mid-lactation were used in the study. This study was carried out with two homogeneous groups: the control group (CON) and fenugreek group (FG). Both groups were fed a total mixed ration (TMR), but the FG treatment had their diet supplemented with 0.1 kg d−1 of fenugreek seed per animal. The feed intake, live weight, milk yield, milk chemical composition, serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentration, milk fatty acid profile, and milk volatile compound profile were determined. The feed intake, live weight gain, and milk yield of the goats did not significantly differ between the CON and FG treatments (P>0.05), whereas the milk fat concentration increased (P=0.05) and the serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations decreased (P<0.05) in the FG treatment. The unsaturated fatty acid concentration in milk (P<0.05) was also enhanced in the FG treatment. In addition, the FG treatment increased 2-propanone, 2-butanone, benzene, 1-methyl-3-(1-methylethyl), and eucalyptol concentrations in milk (P<0.05). In conclusion, the supplementation of goats' diets with fenugreek seed during the mid-lactation period did not affect their performance and improved the unsaturated fatty acid profile of their milk. Of particular importance, we have also detected an increase in the 2-propanone concentration in milk following fenugreek supplementation.

Polyphenols and Lactation: Molecular Evidence to Support the Use of Botanical Galactagogues

“…[65] Surprisingly, few studies have been done to understand the effects of fenugreek on lactation. Studies in dairy animals on milk yield have found conflicting results, [66][67][68] although fenugreek fed to dairy cows enhances milk unsaturated fatty acid concentration. [67] However, two studies in rats provide important insight.…”

“…Studies in dairy animals on milk yield have found conflicting results, [66][67][68] although fenugreek fed to dairy cows enhances milk unsaturated fatty acid concentration. [67] However, two studies in rats provide important insight. Rats lactationally challenged by artificially increased litter size and fed fenugreek (1 g kg −1 BW d −1 ), have greater milk production and pup growth with no deleterious effects on metabolism.…”

Effect of Herbal Feed Additives on Goat Milk Volatile Flavor Compounds

“…Other results revealed a significant effect of herbal supplements on the concentration of biologically active substances, such as apigenin, apigenin 7-glucoside and chlorogenic acid, in goat serum [13]. Another interesting result related to modifying goat milk's fatty acid profile by adding fenugreek grain to goats' diet [14]. Phytobiotics as pure botanicals, such as thymol and vanillin, when used in the nutrition of dairy goats, have confirmed a positive effect on milk yield and animal metabolic and immune status [15].…”

Effect of Adding Fennel and Fenugreek Seeds to Diets of Local Female Goats on some Productive Traits

“…Fenugreek (foenum Trigonella -graecum) from the family Fabaceae, order Leguminosae, is self-pollinating with a forked stem and trifoliate leaves bearing white flowers that produce golden yellow seeds [4]. Recent studies have shown that using fenugreek as a nutritional supplement led to an increase in milk production and efficiency without any harmful effects on the health of lactating goats, thus increasing the profits of animal farms [5,6]. Fennel )Foeniculum vulgare( is an aromatic plant belonging to Apiaceae family.…”