Effects of Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) supplementation on the productive performance of dairy cows during mid-lactation

Abstract

Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis), a tea known for its high antioxidant content, was fed (250 g/cow.day) to 8 of 16 Holstein cows for 6 weeks to assess its effect on their performance. Cows were weighed and blood samples were taken on Weeks 0, 3 and 6. Blood samples were centrifuged and plasma was analysed for reactive oxygen metabolites, biological antioxidant potential, advanced oxidation protein products and non-esterified fatty acids. Cows were milked two times daily and milk yields were recorded daily for individual cows. On Weeks 0 and 6, individual milk samples were collected from two consecutive milkings, composited, and analysed for somatic cell counts, fat and true protein concentra..