Effects of Moringa Oleifera on haematology and growth performance of Blanthrax vaccinated castrated Bapedi goats

Abstract

BaPedi goats play a substantial role in the economy of the Limpopo province and contribute to food security in smallholder farming communities. However, livestock diseases are a major problem in hot provinces where droughts and harsh environmental conditions often trigger soil-borne diseases such as anthrax. Livestock farmers conduct vaccination programs that are essential for the health of their animals. However, factors such as malnutrition may cause a poor immune response in animals, thus, the vaccine may fail to achieve the desired outcome. The study aimed to ascertain the immunomodulatory effects of M. oleifera leaves supplemented to the diets of castrated BaPedi goats following vaccination with Blanthrax vaccine. The study also evaluated the effect of different drying methods on the nutritional content of M. oleifera leaves. The present study revealed that M. oleifera leaves are rich in minerals and crude protein. Significant differences in means (p<0.05) were observed for most elements subjected to different drying methods. No significant differences (p>0.05) were observed amongst means for haemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBC), haematocrit, mean corpuscular (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), red cell width (RCDW), white cell count (WCC), lymphocytes, and eosinophils. Out of the parameters that were evaluated, only the means for platelet and monocyte counts showed significant differences (p<0.05). There were no significant differences (p>0.05) amongst growth performance and feed efficiency parameters. Results of the present study indicate that M. oleifera leaves can be used as a feed supplement without having any adverse effects on the blood parameters of BaPedi goats.