Impacts of <i>Nigella sativa</i> Inclusion during Gestation and Lactation on Ovarian Follicle Development, as Well as the Blood and Metabolic Profiles of Ardi Goats in Subtropics

The present study aimed to alleviate the negative effects of the peripartum and postpartum periods on the timing of ovarian follicle development, milk composition, as well as blood and metabolic profiles due to <i>Nigella sativa</i> (<i>N. sativa</i>) supplementation. Twenty-seven pregnant Ardi goats were classified using a randomized complete design into three groups: a control group and two <i>N. sativa</i> groups (10.0 and 20.0 g <i>N. sativa</i> seeds per kg diet). Productive and reproductive performances, in addition to blood and metabolic profiles, were investigated and compared using Duncan’s multiple test. <i>N. sativa</i> supplementation increased dry matter intake and body weight. Ruminal pH and total bacterial counts were increased versus a decreased total protozoal count due to <i>N. sativa</i> inclusion. Additionally, <i>N. sativa</i> supplementation increased the concentration of protein, lactose, solids not fat, fat, and ash in milk. Pulse rates were the lowest (<i>p</i> < 0.05) in the <i>N. sativa</i> group and the partial pressure of oxygen was the lowest in the control group. Red and white blood cells and their related parameters (hemoglobin, hematocrit, neutrophils, and lymphocytes) showed significant increases due to <i>N. sativa</i> inclusion. Total protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, and minerals (calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium) values were higher (<i>p</i> < 0.05) in the <i>N. sativa</i> group. Lower concentrations of blood urea nitrogen were found in <i>N. sativa</i> groups compared to control one. In conclusion, <i>N. sativa</i> inclusion from 4 weeks prepartum to 4 weeks postpartum of Ardi goats modified productive and reproductive performances without any adverse effects on blood and metabolic profiles.