Synergistic Effects of Achyranthes aspera and Ricinus communis Seed Extracts with an Inactivated Vaccine Enhance Growth, Immunity, and Disease Resistance in Labeo rohita

Feed nutrition and rise in antibiotic resistance are growing global challenges in aquaculture, with Aeromonas hydrophila causing significant losses in the carp family. This 60-day study evaluated the potential of combining herbal seed extract (Achyranthes aspera and Ricinus communis) with inactivated vaccine (A. hydrophila) to enhance growth and immunity in Labeo rohita. A total of 540 fish were randomly assigned in six groups (T0-untreated control, T1-A. aspera seed extract (ASE), T2-R. communis seed extract (RSE), T3-vaccinated control, T4-vaccine plus ASE, T5-vaccine plus RSE). Results revealed that herbal–vaccine combinations, particularly T4, showed highest growth performance (p < 0.05). Furthermore, this group showed improved metabolic profiles, indicated by reduced serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose, along with significantly elevated albumin and globulin concentrations. In terms of immune response, neutrophil counts were significantly higher in T4 and T5. Crucially, following a challenge with A. hydrophila, survival rates were higher in T4:90% and T5:85% compared with positive control’s meager 20% survival. Post-challenge hematology confirmed that groups T4 and T5 maintained an enhanced immune status. These findings suggest that combining medicinal plants extract with vaccine effectively enhances growth, immunity, and disease resistance in L. rohita, presenting an environment friendly alternative to traditional antibiotics in aquaculture.