Antiviral effect of herbal mixture (Garlic, Nilavembu, Turmeric, Coriander and Fenugreek) against Newcastle disease virus in-ovo

An experimental trial was undertaken to explore the effect of herbal mixture consisiting of Curcuma longa, Coriander sativum, Allium sativum, Andrographis paniculata and Trigonella foenum graceum by an in ovo assay and the results demonstrated that the ethanolic extracts significantly reduced the virus titres (P<0.05) with no detectable virus being observed in the plant extract treated groups. Phytochemical analysis of the extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins,tannins, terpenoids, hydrolysable tannin and glycosides which has been considered as novel antiviral agents. and can be considered as a viable means to control the economically important Newcastle disease of poultry. These herbs can thus be recommended for its antiviral property and can very well be used as a substitute over the conventionally used antibiotics owing to its synergestic effect to control secondary bacterial infections. Thus the problems of drug resistance and drug residues in poultry meat arising out of usage of synthetic drugs can be minimised and thereby assuring safety and quality. However, in vivo trials are needed to validate the use of this herbal mixture in controlling New castle disease in chickens.