Analysis of the Proximate Composition and Phytochemical Profile of Ludwigia octovalvis as an Alternative Feed Source

Increasing concerns about environmentally friendly farming require an integrated strategy for feeding and medication of farm animals. In keeping with this, the study evaluated Ludwigia octovalvis' potential as a feed alternative and its potential medicinal value for farm animals. Applying established reference methods, the proximate, fibre fraction, and phytochemical components of the plant were evaluated. The proximate analysis of Ludwigia octovalvis was found to contain moisture (8.17%), total ash (5.33%), crude protein (20.72%), crude fibre (5.14%), and crude fat (1.87%). The carbohydrate content (nitrogen-free extract) was 58.77%, energy content of 334.81 Kcal/kg. The fibre component was made up of Cellulose (10.00%), hemicellulose (15.33%), neutral detergent fibre (29.33%), acid detergent fibre (14%), lignin (4.00%), silica (1.00%). There were present in the plant, flavonoids (48.91 mg/ml), phenols (1.40 mg/ml), and tannins (4.56 mg/ml) from the phytochemical analysis. These findings indicate that Ludwigia octovalvis, with its substantial energy content and fibre percentage, is suitable as a feed supplement for animals. Additionally, the plant's high secondary metabolite content of flavonoids promotes the prospect that it can strengthen animal immune systems, making it more suitable for usage as animal feed. In conclusion, the present investigation proves that Ludwigia octovalvis can serve as an acceptable alternative feed source for livestock and a potential source of phytochemicals with medicinal potential. The use of this plant could play a role in the advancement of sustainable agriculture and assist in resolving issues that the livestock sector is currently facing.