Researchers find natural ways to provide sheep immunity from parasites - Land-Grant Impacts

students and faculty examine samples under a microscope

Researchers find natural ways to provide sheep immunity from parasites

Food Security, Story 1890, 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Fiber Systems, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Research

Overuse of antibiotics and dewormers in animal production can lead to the development of parasite resistance. As a result, conventional control programs relying solely on chemical interventions are becoming increasingly ineffective.

At the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, researchers are looking for natural means of controlling livestock parasites. In a two-year study they tested black walnut-hull powder and a species of flowering legume known by the names Chinese bushclover or sericea lespedeza as natural dietary supplements for lambs.

The findings indicate that adding the natural compounds to the diets of lambs enhanced their health and helped in managing gastrointestinal parasites. This natural approach is cost-effective and an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical treatments.

View the full statement on the NIDB.

Photo courtesy of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Agricultural Research Station.

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