PSI-11 Effect of Garlic Barrier on Fecal egg Count and Protein Secretion in Goats

Abstract The present study was carried out to determine the effect of garlic on egg counts and secretion of Galectins (Gals) in goat blood. Garlic (Allium sativum) has been used as medicinal herb since time immemorial in almost every known civilization. It has antibiotic, anti-helminthic and anti-inflammatory properties. Galectins (Gals) are a family of β-galactosidase binding proteins that have a conserved carbohydrate recognition domain. They are involved in cell adhesion, migration, activation, proliferation, apoptosis and modulate pathological processes such as inflammation. Twelve (N=12) adult female clinically healthy Boer x Spanish goats were divided into two treatment groups (N=6 each) used. Treatment group 1 was drenched with 10 ml of Garlic barrier as recommended by the manufacturer (Garlic Barrier, Glendale, CA) and Treatment group 2 was drenched with water over a four-week period. Fecal and blood samples were collected weekly. Eggs per gram was evaluated using Modified McMaster method and the total plasma protein concentration was assessed using the BCA assay (Pierce). All variables were assessed using a t-test (SAS analysis software version 9.0 at p≤0.05). Garlic treatment affected the fecal egg count and plasma protein concentration when compared to untreated controls. The fecal egg count was reduced in animals treated with garlic. The effect varied over time. Garlic EPG in weeks 1 (p<0.004) and 3 (p<0.027) of treatment. A significant increase in total protein concentration (p<0.004) was observed. Garlic treatment has an effect on GIN levels and the inflammatory response. The time dependent effects may indicate parasite, infection stage specific targets and need further study.