Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) Or “ Kolmou ” : A green wonder of nutrition and sustainability
Abstract:
Ipomoea aquatica ( Kolmou in Assamese ) is widely cultivated as an edible, green , leafy vegetable in Asian countries. Here, in this article, I have written about “Water Spinach” or “ Kolmou”. This article sheds light on the numerous benefits of water spinach , it’s use as an alternative to conventional feed and it’s value in veterinary sector.
Introduction:
Ipomoea aquatica, widely known as water spinach, is a semi aquatic plant. It grows abundantly near waterways and requires little to no care. Propagation is either by planting cuttings of the stem shoots or by planting the seeds from flowers that produce seed pods. Leaves contain adequate quantities of vitamins, minerals , plant fibre , amino acids and antioxidant components.
This plant is gaining attention due to its nutritional role in promoting health and preventing disease. This is a well-known plant among the people of India , particularly throughout Assam in North – East India ( locally known as Kolmou ). Traditionally, the plant is being used by the people to cure a number of health issues in both humans and animals.
Uses in Veterinary sector:
The fresh leaves of water spinach are abundant in phenolic antioxidants like carotene-ß, lutein, xanthin, and cryptoxanthin.
Medicinal Value:
Water spinach is a good source of Vitamin A and beta carotene and these are good for eyesight. It is also rich in vitamin C which is a useful substance for the immune system.
Its anthelmintic property helps treat intestinal worm infestation, skin diseases like ringworm, athletes’ foot and others.
It also has detoxifying properties and rich in antioxidants .
Livestock growth and production:
Water spinach has the most potential for livestock growth performance, including chickens, pig, cattle and goats .
It is not only an alternative feed source but also one kind of supplemented feed for goat raising . Supplementation with Water Spinach in the utilization of low quality tree foliage results in an increase in dry matter intake in goat production.
Foraging:
Water spinach can be grown as a forage crop for grazing animals. Animals like ducks and geese particularly enjoy feeding on water spinach leaves and stems. It can provide a nutritious source of food for these animals and help reduce feed costs.
Environmental Benefits: Water spinach can be grown in wetlands or areas with excess water, making it a useful plant for soil conservation and erosion control in animal husbandry systems. It can also be used to help filter and purify water in animal farming operations.
As an alternative feed ingredient for animals:
Water spinach ( Kolmou ) can indeed serve as a valuable alternative feed ingredient in animal husbandry, offering several benefits:
1.Nutrient-Rich: Water spinach is a nutrient-dense plant, rich in proteins, vitamins (such as vitamin A, C, and E), minerals (like iron, calcium, and phosphorus), and dietary fiber. Using water spinach in animal feed can help provide essential nutrients to the animals.
2.Cost-Effective: Water spinach can be a cost-effective feed ingredient, especially if it is grown on the farm or sourced locally. Using water spinach as part of the feed can help reduce feed costs, particularly in areas where traditional feed ingredients are expensive or in short supply.
3.Diverse Uses: Water spinach can be utilized in various forms in animal feed, such as fresh, dried, or ensiled. It can be incorporated into the diets of different livestock animals, including poultry, pigs, and ruminants.
4.Palatability: Many animals find water spinach to be palatable, making it a good option for improving feed intake and overall animal performance. Animals like ducks, geese, and fish particularly enjoy feeding on water spinach.
5.Environmental Sustainability: Growing water spinach as a feed ingredient can contribute to sustainable farming practices. Water spinach is a fast-growing plant that can be cultivated in wetlands or areas with excess water, making it a suitable crop for utilizing marginal lands in animal farming systems.
Animal health:
Water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) has been used not only in human traditional medicine but also in veterinary applications, particularly in folk remedies across various cultures where it is native. Here are some ways water spinach has been utilized for animal health:
1.Digestive Health: Similar to its use in humans, water spinach can help promote better digestion in animals due to its high fiber content. It is sometimes included in the diets of livestock and pets to aid in regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
2.Antioxidant Benefits: The antioxidant properties of water spinach, coming from vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin C, can benefit animals by boosting their immune system and improving overall health.
3.Anti-inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory effects of water spinach might be beneficial for animals suffering from inflammation-related conditions, such as arthritis in older pets or livestock.
4.Nutritional Supplement: Water spinach is nutrient-rich, containing essential vitamins and minerals. It can serve as a supplementary feed for livestock to improve their nutrient intake, particularly in regions where this plant grows abundantly.
5.Parasite Control: There is anecdotal evidence suggesting that water spinach might help in controlling parasites in animals, although more scientific research is needed to substantiate these claims.
6.Skin Health: The application of water spinach extracts has been used traditionally to treat skin infections and improve coat health in animals, thanks to its supposed antimicrobial properties.
7.Antimicrobial Effects: Though more research is needed, there are indications that water spinach may possess antimicrobial properties that could help in fighting off infections caused by certain pathogens in animals.
8.Liver Health: Traditionally used to treat liver ailments in humans, water spinach could potentially support liver health in animals as well, though specific veterinary research is needed to support this use.
9.Toxin Removal and Detoxification: Water spinach has been considered for its role in detoxifying the body by facilitating the removal of toxins and waste products, potentially benefiting animals exposed to poor diets or those in polluted environments.
Veterinary implications: Water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) is increasingly recognized for its potential benefits in veterinary medicine, particularly in regions where it is abundant and forms a staple part of human and animal diets. Its nutritional profile and traditional uses suggest several potential veterinary implications, which can be especially valuable in integrated farming systems and in areas with limited access to commercial animal feeds and veterinary medicines.
With appropriate management, water spinach can be a valuable addition to animal diets, especially in resource-limited settings.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, water spinach stands out as a remarkably nutritious and versatile vegetable, ideal for anyone looking to enhance diets with a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Easy to grow and adaptable to a variety of climates and farming methods, water spinach also supports sustainable agricultural practices, making it a valuable crop for both small-scale gardeners and commercial farmers.
We should remember that while water spinach can provide various benefits in animal husbandry, it’s essential to ensure that it is safe for consumption by the specific animals we are raising and to follow proper guidelines for feeding and utilizing it in animal diets.
Water spinach is more than just a leafy green; it’s a symbol of sustainable agriculture and dietary health.
Writer:
Jenifar Rahman Hazarika
Third Professional Year , BVSc and AH
Lakhimpur College of Veterinary Science
Joyhing, North Lakhimpur
787051
References:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:N_Ipoa_D1600.JPG
