Kicking Newcastle Disease in Poultry

Abstract

Abstract:- Newcastle Disease (ND) is a highly contagious viral infection that causes substantial mortality and economic losses in poultry, particularly in resource-limited settings like rural Uganda. This study explores the therapeutic potential of a herbal blend composed of Christmas melon, aloe vera, chili, and ash extract as an alternative or adjunct treatment for ND in poultry. Grounded in Integrative Medicine Theory (IMT), which emphasizes the synergy between conventional and traditional medical approaches, the study investigates the effectiveness of this herbal remedy in both treating and preventing ND. The results, based on personal case studies and a larger preventive trial, demonstrate a high recovery rate in affected birds and successful prevention in exposed flocks. Notably, six out of seven birds treated for ND showed full recovery, and no new ND cases emerged in the preventive trial involving 1,654 layers. However, a slight decrease in egg production was observed in treated layers, signaling a potential side effect that warrants further research. This study underscores the viability of herbal remedies in managing ND in areas where conventional treatments may be limited or inaccessible, providing a holistic, farmer-centered, and cost-effective solution to poultry health management in rural African settings. While promising, further research is needed to optimize dosage, assess long-term safety, and minimize adverse effects