# Effects of Euphorbia humifusa Extract on Nutrient Digestibility, Diarrhea, Serum Biomarkers, and Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms in Preweaned Calves

## TL;DR

A plant extract called Euphorbia humifusa improves calf growth, digestion, and immunity by reducing inflammation and boosting health markers.

## Contribution

The study identifies Euphorbia humifusa extract as a novel feed additive that enhances calf health through anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects.

## Key findings

- Calves given 1200 mg/d of EHE had 14.09% higher body weight gain and improved nutrient digestibility.
- EHE reduced diarrhea frequency and altered rumen fermentation to favor healthier volatile fatty acids.
- Network pharmacology revealed 256 anti-inflammatory targets, including BCL2 and IL6, involved in immune pathways.

## Abstract

Calves’ healthy growth and strong immunity are important for livestock farming, but finding safe, effective feed additives to support these needs remains a key concern. This study focused on the extract from a plant called Euphorbia humifusa extract (EHE) to see if it could work as a new feed additive. First, we identified the main helpful substances in EHE: polyphenols (most of which are flavonoids, a type of compound with health benefits) and sugars. We then tested adding EHE to milk replacers (a common feed for calves) and found it clearly improved calf growth—with better results when using the right amount. We also studied how EHE works: it acts on several key molecules in calves’ bodies and affects processes related to immunity, stress, and cell health. It also reduces inflammation and helps fight viruses by blocking a pathway called NF-κB. This research provides a safe feed additive option to boost calf health, supporting better livestock farming.

Early-life rearing of animals is critical for their lifelong productivity, health, and the quality/safety of livestock products. EHE, a feed additive with growth-promoting, antibacterial, and immunity-enhancing properties, was tested for effects on preweaned calves. Forty-eight calves (42.18 ± 0.61 kg) were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 12/group), fed milk replacer with 0 (CON), 400 (A), 800 (B), or 1200 (C) mg/d EHE for 60 d (after 6 d adaptation). Growth, nutrient digestibility, serum biomarkers, rumen fermentation, and diarrhea incidence were measured; network pharmacology was used to analyze EHE’s targets. Results: Group C had 14.09% higher body weight gain (52 vs. 45 kg, p < 0.05), higher dry matter intake/digestibility, and increased acid detergent fiber digestibility vs. CON. Group C had reduced diarrhea frequency, tended to have lower rumen acetate-to-propionate ratio, and had higher early rumen volatile fatty acids (VFA). At d 66, Groups B and C had reduced serum IL-6/IL-8 (p < 0.05). Network pharmacology identified 256 anti-inflammatory targets (e.g., BCL2, IL6) involved in apoptosis/inflammatory pathways. Conclusion: 1200 mg/d EHE optimally improves calf growth, digestibility, and anti-inflammatory status.