Review Article | Veterinary Pathology

Potential health benefits of using Aloe vera as a feed additive in livestock: A mini-review

Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India – 243122

Abstract

Plant-based remedies hold a special place despite the wide availability of synthetic pharmaceuticals due to their potent benefits and fewer side effects. Antibiotics are used to cure bacterial diseases and improve health conditions in animals; however, the increased misuse of antibiotics is posing a serious threat to animal health due to the development of antibiotic resistance as well as their residues in foods have public health concerns. Plant-derived compounds have a considerable potential for use as an alternative medicinal cure for many ailments, and are relatively cheaper and non-toxic. Aloe vera is gaining importance as is packed with health beneficial compounds like vitamins, minerals, polysaccharides, phytosterols, antioxidants, and amino acids. The health and well-being of livestock are improved by its antimicrobial nature and via maintaining a good balance of the beneficial intestinal microflora. This, in turn, boosts the immunity of animals and enhances their reproductive performance. Environmental health is safeguarded by the anti-methanogenic property of the extract of Aloe vera, which makes it an even more promising candidate for livestock feed supplementation. This review provides an overview of the potential multiple health benefits of Aloe vera as a promising and balanced herbal feed additive in livestock rearing.

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