Evaluation of Adaptogenic Activity of Ashwagandha Root Extract on Post-Antivenom Production and Bleeding Stress in Horses

Abstract

This study evaluated the adaptogenic effects of Ashwagandha root extract (ARE) on post-antivenom production and bleeding stress in horses. Twenty-four horses were randomly assigned to four groups (n=6 per group). Groups 1 and 2 received a normal diet, whereas groups 3 and 4 were supplemented with ARE at 15 mg/kg body weight for 28 days. ARE was administered orally in the form of a slurry. Horses in groups 2 and 4 were immunized on days 7, 14, and 21, followed by bleeding stress on day 28. Haematological, biochemical, hormonal, and antioxidant parameters were assessed at different intervals. Body weight showed non-significant increase in the ARE-treated groups. Haematological analysis indicated a non-significant decline in TEC, Hb, and PCV in group 2, whereas group 4 exhibited slight increases. Group 3 showed significant (P<0.05) improvements post-stress. TLC increased significantly (P<0.05) in groups 2 and 4 on day 28. Cortisol levels significantly decreased (P<0.05) in group 3 and non-significantly in group 4, whereas group 2 exhibited significantly higher levels. Erythropoietin levels significantly increased (P<0.05) in the ARE-treated groups but decreased in group 2. The inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly (P<0.05) elevated in group 2. Antioxidant profiles improved significantly (P<0.05) in group 3.These findings suggest that ARE supplementation mitigates stress-induced physiological changes and enhances antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses in horses subjected to immunization and bleeding stress.