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VOL. 11, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Phytochemical-driven modulation of rumen fermentation and in-vitro digestibility by a four-herb phytogenic mixture
Authors
R Balamurugan
Abstract
The increasing demand for sustainable
livestock production has intensified interest in plant-based feed additives
capable of improving nutrient utilization while modulating rumen fermentation.
The present study aims to evaluate the effects of a four-herb phytogenic
mixture comprising amla (Phyllanthus emblica), neem (Azadirachta indica),
curry leaf (Murraya koenigii) and tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) on in-vitro
feed digestibility and rumen fermentation. The selected herbs will be
characterized for their major phytochemical constituents, including phenolics,
flavonoids, tannins and saponins. The polyherbal formulation will be
incorporated into a representative ruminant feed substrate at graded inclusion
levels and subjected to anaerobic in-vitro rumen fermentation. Fermentation kinetics
will be monitored at different incubation intervals to determine cumulative gas
production, fermentation rate and degradation characteristics. In-vitro dry
matter and organic matter digestibility, methane production, pH,
ammonia-nitrogen and volatile fatty acid profiles will be evaluated to assess
the nutritional and fermentative responses. The relationship between
phytochemical characteristics and fermentation responses will also be
investigated to identify potential mechanisms underlying the effects of the
herbal mixture. The study is expected to identify an effective inclusion level
that improves feed digestibility and desirable fermentation characteristics
while limiting excessive methane formation. The findings may provide a
scientific basis for developing phytogenic, sustainable and
nutritionally compatible feed additives for improving rumen fermentation
efficiency.
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Pages:337-343
How to cite this article:
R Balamurugan "Phytochemical-driven modulation of rumen fermentation and <i>in-vitro</i> digestibility by a four-herb phytogenic mixture". International Journal of Botany Studies, Vol 11, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 337-343
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