Supplementation of dairy cows with homeopathy: performance and digestibility

The effect of supplementing a homeopathic combination on dairy cow performance and nutrient digestibility was evaluated. Thirty-two Holstein cows were paired blocked and randomly assigned to one of two treatments for 63 days, following a 14-day standardization period. Variables measured at the end of the standardization period adjusted weekly measurements of the same variable in the statistical analysis model. Treatments were: Daily supplementation of 150 grams of a homeopathic combination (Hypothalamus, 10(-30); Colibacilinum, 10(-30); Streptococcus Beta Hemolyticum, 10(-60), Streptococcus Uberis, 10(-60); Phytolacca, 10(-60); Calcium Phosphoricum, 10(-30); Natrum Muriaticum, 10(-60); Urtica Urens, 10(-30), Silicea Terra, 10(-400)) in mineral vehicle, or 150 grams of the same mineral vehicle (Control). Supplementation with homeopathy increased milk protein content from 3.09 to 3.19% (P=0.01) and tended to increase the daily secretion of protein from 0.737 to 0.776kg (P=0.10). The trend for decreased fiber and organic matter digestibilities (P=0.10), and the similar allantoin to creatinine ratio in urine (P=0.32), suggests that there was an increase in the efficiency of microbial protein synthesis in the rumen. Although the mechanism could not be elucidated, the homeopathic combination increased milk protein content.