Effects of Wood Vinegar on the Protection of Diarrhea in Weaning Pigs

The aim of the study was to examine the effects of wood vinegar on the protection of diarrhea in weaning pigs. Weaning pigs were divided into 4 groups each group contained 24 animals. Group 1 – 4 was orally fed with distilled water, antibiotic (enrofloxacin), 5% wood vinegar, and 5% acetic acid 1 mL/daily for 3 weeks after weaning (started on day 28 after birth), respectively. Feces samples were collected and were subjected to bacterial culture (using Nutrient Agar, Lactobacillus MRS Agar and EMB Agar) and bacterial colonies counted. The results showed that 5% wood vinegar administration significantly increased the number of Lactobacillus spp. and significantly decreased Escherichia coli and total bacterial count when compared to the control group (group 1). Interestingly, the effects were the same as that of antibiotic administration and significantly better than those of administered by 5% acetic acid. Taken together, the data suggest that wood vinegar has protective effects against diarrhea by increasing Lactobacillus spp. and reducing Escherichia coli in weaning pigs and that the effects are as good as the use of antibiotics. Wood vinegar therefore may be used as an agent to promote a healthy gut in weaning pigs.