Pipal leaves (Ficus religiosa)

Local name: Pipal tree

Pipal trees grow throughout India. The trees remain green throughout the year. Considerable research has been conducted on the use of pipal leaves as livestock feed.

Nutritive value

The palatability and nutritive value of pipal leaves is not very good. Leaves when fed alone could form a maintenance ration. On an average, the leaves contain 5.47% DCP, and 39.22% TDN. The DCP content is fairly high as compared to conventional fodders. The TDN value is lower  as compared to poor type roughages. Studies revealed that various nutrients in the leaves varied during different months and seasons. The leaves along with other sources of TDN could form a ration during scarcity periods.