Rosemary and lemongrass herbs as phytogenic feed additives to improve efficient feed utilization, manipulate rumen fermentation and elevate milk production of Damascus goats

This study was conducted to determine the effect of rosemary or lemongrass herbs at 10 g daily on feed utilization, milk production, milk composition, and fatty acid profile in lactating Damascus goats. Fifteen goats were divided into 3 treatments (5 goats each) and fed a basal diet of berseem clover and concentrates (1:1 on dry matter (DM) basis; Control treatment) or the control diet supplemented with either 10 g daily of rosemary (Rosemary treatment), or 10 g daily of lemongrass (Lemongrass treatment) for 12 weeks. Inclusion of lemongrass and rosemary did not affect (P > 0.05) nutrient intake. However, inclusion of lemongrass or rosemary increased (P < 0.05) organic matter and fiber digestion. Ruminal pH was not influenced (P > 0.05) by dietary treatment. Feeding lemongrass or rosemary treatment increased (P < 0.05) ruminal concentration of short chain fatty acids, propionate, and serum glucose concentration and decreased serum cholesterol concentration. Feeding lemongrass or rosemary treatment increased (P < 0.05) milk production (actual and energy corrected milk), and milk fat and lactose concentration. Feeding rosemary or lemongrass containing diet increased (P < 0.05) total unsaturated fatty acids and total conjugated linoleic acid and decreased total saturated fatty acids (P < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation of lemongrass and rosemary in the diet of lactating Damascus goats at 10 g/goat daily enhanced nutrient digestibility and milk yield, with positive ruminal fermentation.