IMMUNOMODULATORY EFFECTS OF GARLIC AND TULSI IN REPEAT BREEDING CROSSBRED COWS

Abstract

Role of crude extracts of garlic and tulsi as an agent to stimulate uterine defense mechanism was studied by
examining total protein and immunoglobulins in uterine flushing of repeat breeding cows and compared with most
sensitive antibiotic (enrofloxacin), selected on the basis of antibiogram. Forty crossbred repeat breeding cows
with endometritis were selected on the basis of history, appearance of cervical mucus and white side test after
thorough per-rectal examination. Cows were divided randomly into five groups viz.A, B, C, D and E (control). 30 ml
crude extracts of garlic, tulsi, garlic+tulsi, diluted with distilled water (1 :5) were infused intrauterine, thrice, at 24
hrs interval starting on day of estrum in cows of group A, B and C, respectively. Similarly, enrofloxacin, selected on
the basis of antibiO!Jram (30 ml} and PBS (30 ml) were infused in cows of group D and E, respectively. Uterine
flushings were collected at O hrs ( day of estrum before treatment) and considered as "O" hour collection of uterine .
flushing. Second uterine flushing was also collected at 72 hrs of first flushing. These flushings were used for·
estimation of total protein and immunoglobulins. Results revealed a non significant rise in total protein after garlic,
tulsi and garlic+tulsi treatment. On the other hand, there was significant increase (p<0.05) in immunoglobulins
concentration after treatment. However, a significant decline (p<0.05) in these values was observed after treatment
in antibiotic group.