Effect of Polyherbal and Mineral Supplementation on Serum Mineral Profile and Metabolic Regulation in Delayed Pubertal Crossbred Heifers

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation with polyherbal and mineral mixtures on the serum mineral profile of delayed pubertal crossbred heifers over a 28-day period. Serum levels of calcium, sodium, phosphorus, and magnesium were measured at different time points to assess the influence of supplementation. A significant variation (P < 0.05) in serum calcium levels was observed among groups, with Group 3 (polyherbal and mineral mixture) exhibiting the highest calcium concentrations at days 21 and 28, followed by Group 1 (polyherbal mixture) and Group 2 (mineral mixture). This indicates a synergistic effect of combined supplementation in improving calcium metabolism. Phosphorus levels also showed significant improvement (P < 0.05) across all supplemented groups, with Group 3 demonstrating the highest phosphorus levels by day 28 (7.85 ± 0.08 mg/dL), followed by Group 2 and Group 1. These results suggest enhanced phosphorus retention and bioavailability due to supplementation. Magnesium levels increased notably in Groups 2 and 3, while the control group exhibited minimal changes. The highest magnesium levels were observed in Groups 2 and 3 at day 14, reinforcing the importance of mineral supplementation in maintaining magnesium homeostasis. The study concludes that polyherbal and mineral supplementation significantly improves serum mineral profiles and metabolic status, with combined supplementation yielding the most pronounced benefits. These findings underscore the potential of dietary interventions in optimizing mineral metabolism, thereby contributing to improved reproductive performance in delayed pubertal heifers.