Assessing the Anthelmintic Efficacy of Papaya Seeds and Moringa Leaves in Sheep at Techiman Disease Investigation Farm: A Case Study.

Abstract

Intestinal helminths, including Haemonchus contortus and Moniezia spp., pose significant health and economic challenges in livestock farming, particularly with the rise of anthelmintic resistance. This study, therefore, assessed the anthelmintic efficacy of papaya seeds (Carica papaya) and moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera) in controlling intestinal nematodes in sheep, focusing on their effectiveness as alternatives to conventional dewormers. This study also assessed the effect of these treatments on weight gain and faecal consistency in sheep. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 33 sheep divided into four groups: untreated control (distilled water), papaya seed treatment, moringa leaf treatment, and conventional dewormer. Faecal samples and weight measurements were taken pre- and post-treatment. The McMaster technique was used to determine the worm load, which is faecal egg counts (FEC), and the Faecal Egg Count Reduction Test (FECRT) was performed to evaluate how effective the treatments were. The association between the treatments and faecal consistency and growth rate was likewise determined by statistical analysis. Key findings revealed that papaya seeds and moringa leaves significantly reduced the FEC by up to 82% and 92%, respectively, for Moniezia spp, and 51% and 61% for Haemonchus spp. Moringa leaves demonstrated greater efficacy against Moniezia spp. compared to papaya seeds and conventional dewormer. Weight gain and improved faecal consistency were observed in treated groups, highlighting the dual benefits of parasite control and enhanced nutrition. The study concludes that papaya seeds and moringa leaves are cost-effective and sustainable alternatives for managing intestinal helminths in sheep, addressing challenges of anthelmintic resistance. Further research is recommended to optimize dosages and assess long-term effects.