Himalaya cattle feeds are one of the most sought after kinds of feeds for livestock. Not only does this type of feed contain a high quality level of minerals, but it also has the added benefit of being rich in antioxidants, making it an effective tool in the fight against diseases. It’s also an excellent source of Vitamin A, which is important for a healthy immune system, as well as a range of B vitamins, which are essential to good health.
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Tannin
Tannins are a class of plant secondary metabolites that have been studied extensively. They are known for their disinfectant, astringent, and antiparasitic properties. Their function in animal nutrition includes their effect on the immune system and the digestive process.
Tannins have been identified as a significant inhibitor of methane production in the rumen. In vitro studies have also shown that tannins can suppress methane formation. Some research has also found that condensed tannins may alter rumen fermentation.
Recent studies have suggested that some phyto-sources in the Himalayan regions contain methane mitigation potential. For example, the leaves of Terminalia chebula contain appreciable amounts of tannins and other secondary metabolites. These compounds inhibit rumen methane production and can be used as a novel anti-methanogenic feed additive.
Mimosine
Mimosine is a non-protein amino acid found in Leucaena, a tropical legume tree. It has an allelopathic effect and inhibits growth. It may contribute to soil injury.
The toxicity of mimosine is believed to be related to its ability to affect microbes. The level of mimosine is estimated to be approximately 20 g per 6 kg dry matter. However, in ruminants, mimosine is degraded to 3,4-DHP. This goitrogen is toxic to animals.
As a result of its toxic effects, mimosine is considered an anti-nutrient. In addition, its consumption in ruminants may cause poor growth, mouth lesions, and lameness. Alopecia is also a possibility.
Several reports have investigated the potential of using mimosine as a bio-pesticide in agricultural practices. Research has also clarified the quantity of mimosine in different plant parts.
Nutrients
Having a good diet for cattle is important to the livestock industry. Animals need vitamins, minerals, and energy for growth and reproduction. The age of the animal also affects the vitamin and mineral requirements.
In addition to these, water is an important component for animals. Water aids in the transportation of nutrients and maintains cellular structure. It also provides relief to animals in stressful conditions.
Aside from its basic functions, salt helps animals cope with multiple body functions. Salt is an essential part of a good diet. Cattle need adequate salt in their feed to produce milk. Moreover, poor quality feeds can cause nutritional deficiencies.
Vitamins are biological compounds responsible for key metabolic processes in animals. They include Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K. These are essential for the health of all animals.
Dietary value of R. nepalensis
The Himalayan region contains a wide variety of wild edible plant species. However, very few studies have been carried out on the nutraceutical value of these plants.
This is a very important question as the Himalayan regions are home to some of the richest biodiversity in the world. Ethno-veterinary research is needed to bridge the knowledge gap. Here, we review the ethno-veterinary usage of some common and promising species of plants.
The study was conducted in three bio-geographical regions. It was designed to provide comprehensive data on the ethno-veterinary usage of the plants.
An extensive literature search was undertaken. We found that the majority of the plant species reported in the Himalayan region were used for food and medicinal purposes. These included plants such as Carex setosa, O. digyna, Dolomiaea macrocephala, Chenopodium album, and Berberis aristata.
Challenges in the Himalayas
For Himalayans, agriculture is their sole source of livelihood. Agricultural production depends on climatic variations. In addition, it is impacted by various physical and human constraints. These limitations restrict resource productivity. They also limit the development of the agricultural sector.
Increasing demand for food crops has strained forests. In addition, there is a growing demand for timber. The availability of grazing lands has decreased, which may be contributing to the decline in livestock populations.
The increasing pressure on new areas may lead to conflicts among users. This may break existing social and economic systems. It may also make people abandon traditional occupations.
Livestock plays an important role in mixed crop farming system. A large number of goats are now being raised in the Western Himalayas. Moreover, buffaloes are being used for meat production.
