Phytoimmunomodulators - Approach towards Potentiating Immunity of Cows during Transition period - A Review

Abstract

Transition from gestation to lactation accounts for great metabolic stress to dairy cows. During this period, many components of host defense system are altered viz. function of neutrophils, stimulation and responsiveness of lymphocytes to mitogens, response of antibodies and production of cytokine by immune cells. Strengthening the non-specific immunity by reducing the stress of cow is the only perspective to overcome the incidence of diseases during this period. Many plants have eminent antioxidant potential. Few of them have been identified and tested by modern scientific methodologies for them in-vitro antioxidant potential e.g. Ocimum sanctum, Syzygium aromaticum, Emblica officinalis, Asparagus recemosus, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Nigella sativa, Tribulus terrestris, Tinospora cordifolia and Withania somnifera etc. They are used in animal and human medication throughout history. The literature reveals that these natural antioxidants represent a potential side effect-free alternative. They have range of biochemical activities like, inhibiting the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), free radical scavenging activity either directly or indirectly as well as alteration of redox potential at intracellular level. They may be one of the promising option during this period. Such an alternative towards potentiating immunity reduces the problem of antibiotic resistance, drug residue and also ensure general wellbeing and functional life of cows.