Therapeutic efficacy of Centratherum anthelminticum in subclinical mastitis: A biochemical and hematological assessment in lactating cattle.

Background and aim: Subclinical mastitis (SCM) in dairy cattle significantly compromises milk quality, animal health, and farm profitability, often remaining undetected due to the absence of clinical signs. The increasing antimicrobial resistance associated with conventional treatments highlights the need for effective alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of Centratherum anthelminticum (CA), alone and in combination with tylosin, in managing SCM in lactating cows.

Materials and methods: Fifteen California mastitis test-positive cows were randomly divided into three groups (n = 5/group). Group A received tylosin (18 mg/kg intramuscular), Group B received CA (120 g orally), and Group C received both treatments. Milk samples were analyzed pre- and post-treatment for somatic cell count (SCC), pH, electrical conductivity, fat, protein, lactose, and solids-not-fat (SNF) content. Hematological parameters, including red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell, hemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), and lymphocyte percentages, were evaluated alongside oxidative stress markers - total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidative stress (TOS).

Results: Significant post-treatment reductions in SCC, pH, and conductivity were observed in all groups. Group C exhibited the most pronounced improvements in lactose, fat, and SNF, with no change in protein. Group B demonstrated the highest TAC increase and TOS reduction, affirming CA's antioxidative potential. Hematological evaluations revealed systemic improvements post-treatment, particularly in RBC and PCV levels. Group B also showed increased lymphocyte counts, further indicating immunomodulatory effects.

Conclusion: CA exhibits considerable therapeutic potential in managing SCM, especially when combined with tylosin. Its antioxidative and immunomodulatory effects may enhance udder health and milk quality while reducing reliance on antibiotics. Future large-scale studies are warranted to confirm these findings and explore CA's integration into sustainable mastitis management strategies.