Clinical evaluation of chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) and anise (Pimpinella anisum L.) on cattle appetite and comparison with common product

In a double blind randomized clinical trial, 66 Holstein cows with a mean age of 4.9±1.55 years, mean weight 548±105 and symptoms of anorexia or loss of appetite were selected. The animals have been divided into two groups. One group, were administered by the mixture of chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) and anise (Pimpinella anisum L.) and another group administrated by the mixture of nux vomica and Gentian (Ruminotoric ®) for 2 days consequently. All animals were closely observed for any clinical improvement such as rate of appetite, frequency and strength of ruminal contractions, after and before the treatment. Results showed that, mixture of chicory and anise affect on rate of appetite, frequency and strength of ruminal contractions significantly (p<0.001). There was no significant difference between Ruminotoric and the mixture of chicory and anise in symptoms of appetite (p>0.05). The rate of healing for chicory mixture and anise group was %77.8. The mixture of chicory and anise which is an herbal preparation appears to be safe, cost effective and promising alternative to conventional drugs for the improvement of anorexia in cows.