Phytochemical profiling of Bambusa vulgaris and Bambusa balcooa: Therapeutic prospects for bovine digestive disorders and anthelmintic applications

The therapeutic qualities of bamboo species Bambusa vulgaris and Bambusa balcooa are attributed to their varied phytochemical makeup. Various studies have identified bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, resins, fixed oils, phytosterols and phenols in different plant parts, including leaves, stems and shoots. These chemical constituents have numerous pharmacological positive aspects, especially cholesterol-lowering, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These phytochemicals could potentially hold therapeutic applications in veterinary medicine, particularly in parasite control and the digestive health of cattles. The antioxidant properties of flavonoids and phenols could help protect the gastrointestinal system from oxidative damage, while saponins have demonstrated antiparasitic activity, which may aid in controlling helminth infections in cattle. Although direct research on the application of Bambusa vulgaris and Bambusa balcooa for treating digestive disorders and parasites in livestock is limited, their bioactive components suggest promising benefits. Further studies are needed to establish their effectiveness, optimal dosage, safety profile and mechanisms of action in veterinary use. This study aims to explore the digestive and anthelmintic properties of Bambusa vulgaris and Bambusa balcooa, evaluating their potential as natural alternatives for improving gastrointestinal health and controlling parasitic infections in cattle. By integrating these bamboo species into livestock feed, farmers can potentially reduce dependency on synthetic drugs, promoting a more sustainable and organic approach to animal health management. All experimental procedures involving Eisenia fetida (earthworms) were conducted in accordance with the ethical standards and guidelines for the care and use of invertebrates in scientific research. The use of invertebrate models does not require approval from the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (IAEC) as per the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India. Nonetheless, efforts were made to minimize harm and ensure humane handling throughout the study, following institutional best practices. Comparative evaluation of different solvent extracts (aqueous, methanol and ethanol) revealed that methanol and ethanol extracts exhibited significantly higher anthelmintic activity compared to the aqueous extract. These organic solvents likely facilitated better extraction of bioactive phytoconstituents responsible for vermicidal effects, indicating their potential for further phytopharmacological development.