SIGNIFICANCE OF DONKEY MILK FOR HUMANKIND

SIGNIFICANCE OF DONKEY MILK FOR HUMANKIND

Karishma Choudhary and Vinod Kumar Palsaniya

M.V.Sc. (LPM), CVAS, NAVANIA, VALLABHNAGAR, UDAIPUR.

Abstract:

In the late 20th century, the donkey milk was used to feed orphaned infants and cure weak and sick children due to its resemblance with the human breast milk. When compared to the makeup of goat, sheep, cow, and camel milk, donkey milk exhibits similarities to human breast milk in terms of lactose, protein, and ash. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated that donkey milk contains a number of active compounds that strengthen immunity and provide additional health advantages. Lactoferrin and lysozyme are two powerful antibacterial substances found in donkey milk. Though in smaller amounts, goat, sheep, and cow milk also contains these compounds. Donkey milk is lower in fat and cholesterol than milk from cows, goats, and sheep. For those with heart conditions or cardiovascular disease, this milk is ideal.

A resurgence of interest in traditional foods and ancient treatments has occurred in recent years, prompting a re-evaluation of many natural resources for potential health advantages. Among these, donkey milk has drawn the interest of scientists, dietitians, and consumers alike. It was previously prized by ancient civilizations and was seen as a symbol of purity and energy. Donkey milk is regarded as hypoallergenic and safe for intake by both young children and the elderly due to its reduced strong allergen content.

Key Words: Donkey milk, Nutritive value, Composition, Benefits.

Introduction:

Donkey milk has a long history and is revered as a symbol of fertility, beauty, and wellbeing in many cultures, including ancient Egyptian, Roman, and Greek civilizations. It is worth noting that donkey milk has long been recognized for its skin-rejuvenating effects; the fabled Egyptian queen Cleopatra is said to have bathed in it.

When compared to the milk of other dairy species, such as goats, buffalo, sheep, cows, and camels, donkey milk most closely resembles human breast milk. Despite the fact that it was utilized in the 19th century to feed orphans. When compared to other farm animals, the female donkey yields a fairly little amount of milk. Only around 4 cups (or 1 liter) of milk are produced by one Jennies each day.

Nutritional Characteristics of Donkey Milk:

A highly diverse range of molecules, such as casein, whey proteins, milk fat globule proteins, enzymes, and other small proteins, are present in donkey milk. The chemicals found in donkey milk are quite similar to those found in human milk. Donkey milk has a significantly different protein content than cow milk. Compared to cow milk, the overall protein concentration is lower (1.5–1.8 g/100 g) and more comparable to that of human and mare milk. The high lactose level of donkey milk (5.8–7.4%) makes it more akin to human milk than cow milk.

Three proteins make up the majority of donkey milk: lysozyme, β-lactoglobulin, and α-lactalbumin. α-lactalbumin has been linked to antiviral, anticancer, and antistress characteristics according to recent studies. β-lactoglobulin, the primary whey protein found in cow’s milk and missing in human milk, is one of the main causes of protein allergies in children. Approximately 40% of the whey proteins in donkey milk contain β-lactoglobulin, which is less than in cow’s milk. Two types of caseins—αS-1 and β-caseins—that are present in distinct phosphorylated and glycosylated forms can be found in donkey milk. Compared to cow’s milk, these caseins are found in much less amounts. According to some researchers, donkey milk has a lower percentage of allergens than cow milk, such as β-lactoglobulin and αS-1.

From a nutritional standpoint, donkey milk offers a composition that is remarkably similar to human breast milk, making it a valuable alternative for individuals who may be allergic to cow’s milk or lactose intolerant. Its unique composition is characterized by a balanced ratio of lactose, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, B, and E. This balanced nutritional profile makes donkey milk highly digestible and suitable for individuals across all age groups, from infants to the elderly.

 Metabolism and absorption of donkey milk:

Benefits of Donkey milk:

1. Donkey milk protein contains almost equal amounts of casein and whey, in contrast to the protein in cow’s milk, which has around five times more casein than whey.
2. Many people who are sensitive to the protein found in cow’s milk can drink donkey milk because it has a much lower casein level and doesn’t trigger an allergic reaction.
3. Lactose is another essential ingredient in donkey milk. It facilitates the body’s absorption of calcium, which is necessary for healthy bones.
4. A stronger immune system might be supported by additional milk-derived substances. According to a laboratory study, donkey milk can encourage the release of cytokines, which are immune-stimulating proteins.
5. Nitric oxide, a substance that aids in blood channel dilatation, is also produced by cells when they consume donkey milk. Your blood pressure can be lowered by nitric oxide by increasing blood flow to your blood vessels.

Beyond just providing basic nutrients, donkey milk is known to provide additional health benefits. According to research, donkey milk may have immunomodulatory, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities that support its therapeutic benefits for a range of illnesses. According to studies, donkey milk is a viable option for boosting immunity and preventing infections since its bioactive ingredients, like lactoferrin and lysozyme, have antibacterial activity against a variety of pathogens.

Additionally, the potential function of donkey milk’s anti-inflammatory qualities in treating inflammatory diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and dermatological illnesses like psoriasis and dermatitis has been studied. Donkey milk contains bioactive peptides and immunoglobulins, which may help control immunological responses and reduce inflammation. This is a natural way to promote general health and well-being.

Not only does donkey milk have nutritional and medicinal value, but its sustainable production offers an eco-friendly substitute for traditional dairy farming methods. Donkeys are an excellent choice for small-scale, environmentally friendly farming enterprises because they are resilient and adaptable to tough situations. They also require less care and resources than larger dairy animals.

Donkey milk has a lot of potential, but its broad adoption is hindered by its scarcity, high production costs, and regulatory issues. In comparison to other dairy products, donkey milk is still produced at a relatively low rate, so it is imperative to make efforts to increase production while maintaining animal welfare and quality requirements.

Conclusion:

The renewed interest in donkey milk emphasizes how beneficial it may be for human nutrition and well-being. Given its distinct makeup, hypoallergenic qualities, and possible medicinal applications, donkey milk presents a viable option for enhancing health and well-being in a variety of demographics. Donkey milk holds promise for improving human health and deepening our understanding of the symbiotic relationship between nature and nutrition as research into its full potential is conducted. It is also worth investigating for its applications in functional foods and medical nutrition.

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