Field Evaluation of Vrikshayurveda Bioformulations: Kunapajala and Panchgavya for Enhancing Soil Health and Promoting Sustainable Agriculture

Anju Kumari Thakur¹ , Deep Narayan Pandey² , Gulshan Kumar³

¹Department of biosciences Career Point University Bhoranj (Tikker-Kharwarian), Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh 176041, India

²National Institute of Ayurveda(Ministry of AYUSH) Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

³School of Basic & Applied Sciences, Career Point University Bhoranj (Tikker-Kharwarian), Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh 176041, India

Corresponding Author Email: anjusai9omthakur999@gmail.com

DOI : https://doi.org/10.51470/ABP.2025.04.03.19

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Introduction

1.1 Background

The rapid intensification of global agricultural practices has been driven by increasing demands for higher yields to support a growing population. However, heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers and synthetic pesticides has resulted in significant environmental consequences, including soil degradation, loss of soil biodiversity, water contamination, and increased greenhouse gas emissions [1], [2].

Such practices disrupt natural nutrient cycles, reduce soil organic matter, and impair the long-term productivity and resilience of agroecosystems [3].

1.2 Traditional Bioformulations: Kunapajala and Panchgavya

Kunapajala is fermented liquid organic manure composed of animal remains, cow urine, and plant materials. It provides a rich source of macro- and micronutrients, beneficial microbes, and growth-promoting compounds [4], [5].

Panchgavya, derived from five cow-based products—milk, curd, ghee, urine, and dung—enhances soil microbial diversity, boosts nutrient cycling, and supports plant immunity against biotic and abiotic stresses [6], [7].

1.3 Research Gaps

While Kunapajala and Panchgavya have gained renewed interest among researchers and organic farmers, rigorous scientific evaluations under field conditions remain limited. Standardized data on their influence on key soil health parameters—such as organic carbon content, nutrient availability, and microbial enzyme activities—are scarce. Moreover, comparative studies against conventional chemical inputs have yet to be systematically explored, limiting broader adoption among farming communities.

Inconsistent protocols for preparation, dosage, and application frequency further hinder reproducibility across agroecological zones [8]. Few studies have examined the synergistic effects of combining these two bioformulations under realistic farming conditions, restricting clear recommendations for practitioners.

1.4 Rationale and Scope

Addressing these gaps is critical for integrating traditional ecological knowledge into mainstream agricultural practices and advancing policies that promote organic and regenerative farming systems [9], [10]. This study aims to provide robust, field-based evidence on the potential of Kunapajala and Panchgavya to improve soil health, offering standardized insights to inform future research, extension programs, and sustainable agricultural policy frameworks.

1.5 Objectives

The primary objectives of this study are to: Evaluate the effects of Vrikshayurveda-based bioformulations (Kunapajala and Panchgavya) on key soil health parameters under field conditions. Compare the impact of these bioformulations with that of conventional chemical fertilizers in terms of soil nutrient availability, organic carbon content, and biological activity.

Assess the synergistic effects of combined application of Kunapajala and Panchgavya on overall soil fertility. Generate standardized field-level data to inform sustainable soil management strategies and policy recommendations.

1.6 Hypotheses

The hypotheses tested in this study are: Application of Kunapajala and Panchgavya will significantly improve soil organic carbon content, nutrient availability (N, P, K), and microbial enzyme activities compared to control and chemical fertilizer treatments. Combined application of Kunapajala and Panchgavya will exhibit synergistic effects, resulting in greater improvements in soil health parameters than either formulation applied alone. Vrikshayurveda-based bioformulations can serve as viable and effective alternatives to synthetic inputs for promoting soil fertility and supporting sustainable agriculture under field conditions.

2. METHODOLOGY

2.1 Study Site and Climatic Conditions

The field experiment was conducted at Barsar in the Hamirpur district of Himachal Pradesh, India, during the Rabi season of 2024. The study area is located at 31.702° N latitude and 76.480° E longitude, at an altitude of approximately 800 m above mean sea level [13]. It lies in the lower Shivalik foothills, bordered by the Una, Kangra, and Bilaspur districts, with the Bhakra Dam catchment on one side [14].

The region experiences a subtropical to sub-humid climate, characterized by hot summers, a well-defined monsoon season, and cool winters. Mean annual rainfall is approximately 1,200 mm, with most precipitation occurring between June and September [15]. During the experimental period, maximum temperatures ranged from 25 °C to 32 °C, and minimum temperatures from 12 °C to 20 °C, while relative humidity averaged 65–75% [16].

The experimental soil was classified as sandy loam, with good drainage and a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.3 [17]. Initial soil analysis prior to treatment application indicated an organic carbon content of 0.65%, available nitrogen of 285 kg ha⁻¹, available phosphorus of 18 kg ha⁻¹, and available potassium of 210 kg ha⁻¹ [18].

2.2 Experimental Design and Treatments

The site represents typical agricultural conditions of the lower Himachal region, where soil fertility decline and heavy reliance on chemical inputs are common challenges. A randomized block design (RBD) with six treatments and three replications was implemented on 1.8 m² plots using an intercropping system of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) with potato (Solanum tuberosum) [19], [13]. This system was chosen to promote bioeconomic potential and encourage youth participation in sustainable farming [20].

Treatments included: Control, Farmyard manure (FYM), recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), Kunapajala, Panchgavya, and Combined Kunapajala + Panchgavya. Plots were laid out with 30 cm × 45 cm spacing between plants & plant and rows & rows, respectively. Figure 1 shows the experimental plots at Barsar during early preparation and irrigation under subtropical mid-hill conditions [19], [15]. Uniform ridge formation, bunding, and initial irrigation layout are illustrated.

2.2 Experimental Design and Treatments (continued)

The experiment comprised six treatments. T₁ served as the control with no fertilization. T₂ involved the application of farmyard manure (FYM) at a rate of 10 t ha⁻¹. T₃ represented the recommended dose of inorganic fertilizers (RDF). T₄ and T₅ included applications of Kunapajala and Panchgavya, respectively, while T₆ consisted of a combined formulation of Kunapajala and Panchgavya mixed in a 1:1 ratio.

Kunapajala was prepared through the fermentation of animal waste, cow urine, black gram flour, jaggery, and water over a period of 30 days. Panchgavya was formulated by fermenting cow dung, cow urine, milk, curd, and ghee for 15 days. For the combined treatment (T₆), both bioformulations were blended in equal proportions prior to application. All treatments were administered both as soil drench and foliar sprays at 15, 30, 45, and 60 days after sowing.

Tulsi and potato are intercropped and sown in June 2024, followed by two harvests conducted in August and November 2024. Irrigation and fertilization practices are maintained uniformly across all plots. Manual weeding is performed as required to reduce competition from unwanted vegetation. Environmental parameters, including rainfall, temperature, and relative humidity, remained consistent throughout the experimental duration. Soil sampling performed both before the initial treatment application and following the final harvest to assess changes in organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and enzyme activities—specifically dehydrogenase, phosphatase, and urease. Figure 2a and 2b illustrate the collection and processing of initial soil samples. In Figure 2a, composite samples are obtained from a depth of 0–15 cm using a stainless-steel auger prior to the treatments. Samples are collected randomly from five locations within each plot and homogenized to create a representative sample for each treatment. Figure 2b depicts the subsequent air-drying, grinding, and sieving of the samples through a 2 mm mesh. The processed samples are then stored in labeled polythene bags for further analysis. These baseline samples are used to determine initial soil physicochemical properties, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon, and available macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium [21].

2.3 Preparation of Herbal Kunapajala

Kunapajala is prepared using fermented animal waste, cow urine, black gram flour, jaggery, water, and neem leaves. The mixture is fermented for 30 days and stirred every 3–5 days. This preparation method reflects an ancient Vrikshayurveda technique, adapted for modern sustainable agriculture [6], [21]. The formulation utilizes farm-based inputs such as cow dung, cow urine, milk, ghee, black gram flour, sesame cake, jaggery, neem leaves, and locally available fruit peels along with kitchen waste, mixed primarily with water. Each ingredient contributes unique properties, for example, cow dung and urine provide beneficial microbes and essential nutrients; milk and ghee enhance microbial fermentation and supply micronutrients; neem leaves and kitchen waste offer natural pest resistance and enzymatic activity [22].

The resulting fermented liquid serves as a nutrient-rich, eco-friendly foliar spray and soil drench that supports plant growth, improves soil microbial diversity, and reduces reliance on synthetic agrochemicals. The detailed formulation of Kunapajala for the preparation of 1,000 liters, including ingredient quantities and functional roles, is summarized below in

Note: Fruit peels and kitchen waste should be finely chopped to speed up decomposition. Fermentation is carried out for 15–30 days with daily stirring under shaded conditions.
Source: [6], [21], [23]

2.4 Preparation of Panchgavya

In this study, Panchgavya is prepared following traditional Vrikshayurveda formulations, recognized for their efficacy in promoting plant growth and enhancing immunity [24], [25]. The term “Panchgavya” means “five products of the cow” and reflects its sacred and bioactive value in Indian agrarian traditions [26].

The five primary ingredients used are: fresh cow dung (7 kg), cow urine (3 litres), cow milk (2 liters), cow curd (2 liters), and cow ghee (1 kg). These are further enriched with jaggery and ripe banana to accelerate fermentation and nutrient bioavailability. The preparation process followed the steps outlined below:

Steps for Panchgavya Preparation: Day 1–2: Fresh cow dung and cow ghee mixed thoroughly in a wide-mouthed earthen or plastic container and stirred twice daily.

Day 3: Added cow urine, milk, curd, jaggery, and mashed ripe bananas. They are stirred continuously morning and evening.

Fermentation Duration:  the mixture is kept under shaded conditions for 15 days for maintaining aerobic environment. Final Product: A thick brown liquid with fermented odor, indicating active microbial activity is formed [27]. Before use, the Panchgavya solution is  diluted (3% for foliar spray; 5% for soil drench) and applied at 15, 30, 45, and 60 days after sowing, synchronized with key crop growth stages. This approach enhances nutrient cycling, plant metabolism, and soil health [28].

Precaution: Avoid buffalo products. Use local cow breeds only. Maintain proper aeration and hygiene during fermentation. Source: [32]

Source: Adapted from [32]

2.5 Panchgavya: Traditional Bio-Formulation for Plant Growth Promotion

Panchgavya is a well-documented traditional bio-formulation composed of five cow-derived components: dung, urine, milk, curd, and ghee. When enriched with additives such as jaggery and ripe bananas, this concoction develops a robust microbial consortium containing phytohormones, vitamins, amino acids, and natural growth stimulants [32], [33].

Two main application methods are used: Foliar Spray in which  3% diluted solution (3 L per 100 L water)is filtered for sprayers.

Soil Application: 50 L per hectare is used to through irrigation or direct drenching. The application enhanced plant vigor, soil fertility, and biological activity which is in line with organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices [8].

2.6 Statistical Analysis

All collected experimental data are analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) appropriate for a Randomized Block Design (RBD) to determine significant differences among treatments at p ≤ 0.05. Post hoc comparisons are performed using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT), suitable for evaluating variations across multiple treatments in agricultural field trials [19]. Data visualization and processing is  conducted using SPSS (version 25) and Microsoft Excel.

3. Results and Discussion

3.1 Effect of Vrikshayurveda Bioformulations on Soil Physicochemical Properties

The application of Vrikshayurveda-based bioformulations, particularly Kunapajala and Panchagavya, resulted in significant improvements in soil physicochemical parameters compared to the control and conventional treatments. The baseline soil is sandy loam, with low inherent nutrient status and typical of degraded or under-managed hill-region soils [6], [34]. Control plots exhibited the lowest values of organic carbon (0.61%), available nitrogen (265 kg ha⁻¹), phosphorus (15 kg ha⁻¹), and potassium (198 kg ha⁻¹). Among all treatments, the combined application of Kunapajala and Panchagavya (T₆) demonstrated the most substantial improvement across all parameters. Organic carbon content increased to 0.92%, marking a 50.8% rise over the control, indicative of enhanced microbial biomass, carbon sequestration, and humification processes. Available nitrogen rose to 332 kg ha⁻¹ (+25.3%), while phosphorus and potassium levels reached 24 kg ha⁻¹ and 245 kg ha⁻¹, respectively. These enhancements reflect the role of bioformulations in improving nutrient mineralization and solubilization, mediated by increased enzymatic and microbial activity, particularly due to organic acids, amino acids, and phytohormones produced during the fermentation process [6]. Table 4 compares key soil fertility indicators—organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—under six treatments: Control, FYM, RDF, Kunapajala (T₄), Panchagavya (T₅), and their combination (T₆). The T₆ treatment showed the highest improvement across all parameters, reflecting enhanced nutrient availability and organic matter content due to synergistic microbial and biochemical activity from the bioformulations. This table presents the post-treatment analysis of four critical soil fertility parameters. The results affirm the superior efficacy of Vrikshayurveda bioformulations, especially when used in combination. The significant increase in organic carbon reflects a boost in soil organic matter and microbial biomass, which are vital for nutrient retention and aggregation. Enhanced macronutrient availability under T₄, T₅, and particularly T₆ indicates active mineralization and solubilization processes facilitated by microbial enzymes and organic acids generated during fermentation. This nutrient enrichment aligns with the Vrikshayurveda philosophy of promoting natural, self-sustaining soil fertility through biologically active preparations. The findings support the earlier observations that traditional organic inputs can revitalize soil ecosystems, reduce dependency on synthetic fertilizers, and contribute to long-term sustainability [35], [6], [36], [4], [12].

3.2 Influence on Soil Microbial Activity and Enzymatic Functions

Soil enzymatic assays and microbial counts revealed that all bioformulation treatments enhanced soil biological health, with T₆ showing the most profound effects. The microbial population peaked at 4.2 × 10⁵ CFU g⁻¹ in T₆, nearly double that of the control (2.3 × 10⁵ CFU g⁻¹), indicating a nutrient-rich and microbial active environment.

Enzymatic activities followed a similar trend: Dehydrogenase activity (a marker of overall microbial respiration) was highest under T₆ (36.2 µg TPF g⁻¹ hr⁻¹), an increase of nearly 95% over control. Phosphatase activity (critical for P mineralization) rose to 78.9 µg pNP g⁻¹ hr⁻¹ in T₆. Urease activity, linked to N mineralization, peaked at 37.2 µg NH₄⁺ g⁻¹ hr⁻¹.

These enhancements reflect increased microbial turnover, improved mineralization rates, and greater nutrient bioavailability. Such responses underscore the role of bioformulations in activating soil biology and promoting nutrient cycling [37], [13], [38].

3.3 Synergistic and Sustainable Outcomes of Combined Bioformulations

The combined application of Kunapajala and Panchagavya (T₆) demonstrated a clear synergistic effect that surpassed the individual treatments as well as standard inorganic fertilizer (RDF) and farmyard manure (FYM). The integration of these traditional bio-inputs led to notable improvements in both physicochemical and biological soil parameters. The enhanced organic carbon content contributed to better soil aggregation, moisture retention, and aeration, while the diverse microbial consortia supported efficient nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. Elevated enzymatic activity under T₆ further reflected enhanced metabolic processes in the soil, indicating active decomposition and transformation of organic substrates into plant-available forms.

These combined benefits suggest that Kunapajala and Panchagavya, when used together, offer a holistic approach to soil health restoration and can serve as effective substitutes or supplements to synthetic inputs. Particularly in low-input or hill-based farming systems, such as those found in Himachal Pradesh, these bioformulations offer an agroecological sound strategy for enhancing productivity while maintaining ecological balance. The outcomes resonate with the principles of regenerative agriculture and support broader agroecological transitions aimed at rebuilding soil fertility through nature-based solutions [12], [39].

Moreover, the use of such traditional bioformulations contributes significantly to the achievement of multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By enhancing crop productivity through improved soil fertility, these practices support SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). They also reduce reliance on external chemical inputs, aligning with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Improved soil organic matter content aids in carbon sequestration, contributing to SDG 13 (Climate Action), while enriched microbial biodiversity and restoration of soil health directly align with SDG 15 (Life on Land).

From a sustainability perspective, these inputs are biodegradable, locally available, cost-effective, and promote circular economy principles by recycling on-farm organic waste. Hence, their use is not only agronomically beneficial but also ecologically and economically viable, particularly for smallholder farmers in ecologically fragile regions.

3.4 Visual Representation of Treatment Impact

To better illustrate the effectiveness of the combined bioformulation treatment (T₆), a pie chart may be employed to depict the percentage increases in key soil health indicators compared to both the control and RDF treatments. The chart displays improvements in organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and enzymatic activities such as dehydrogenase and phosphatase. This visual representation in Figure 3 offers a clear comparative understanding of the relative benefits of Kunapajala and Panchagavya over conventional practices. The observed enhancements provide strong empirical support for the integration of traditional Vrikshayurveda-based bioformulations into sustainable farming systems. By combining ancient indigenous knowledge with modern soil health assessments, this approach offers a scientifically grounded alternative to chemical-intensive agriculture, contributing to ecological restoration and sustainable food production systems [6], [22].

Figure3. Pie chart showing percentage improvement in key soil health parameters under the combined treatment(T₆).

This comprehensive evaluation validates the scientific relevance of Vrikshayurveda and affirms that integrating Kunapajala and Panchgavya supports both soil regeneration and agricultural sustainability, bridging ancient practices with modern ecological science.

Conclusion

This study provides robust evidence that Vrikshayurveda-based bioformulations—herbal Kunapajala enriched with Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) and Panchgavya—significantly enhance soil health and crop productivity in a Tulsi–potato (Ocimum sanctum–Solanum tuberosum) intercropping system in the Hamirpur region of Himachal Pradesh. Key improvements were observed in soil organic carbon content, nutrient availability (N, P, K), enzymatic activities, and microbial populations, alongside notable reductions in residual pesticide levels. These results reaffirm the bioenhancing potential of traditional organic inputs rooted in classical Indian agronomy [6], [22], [40].

Among all treatments, the combined application of Kunapajala and Panchgavya consistently outperformed individual treatments and conventional chemical inputs. It not only boosted biomass and yield in both crops but also demonstrated a synergistic effect in fostering soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and biological activity [41], [42].

From a practical standpoint, these bioformulations offer eco-friendly, culturally rooted, and economically sustainable alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals. Their use supports food safety, chemical-free cultivation, and soil regeneration, contributing directly to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land) [43], [35], [1]. Additionally, the emphasis on locally available inputs and indigenous practices has the potential to revitalize rural bioeconomics, promote youth engagement in agriculture, and preserve traditional ecological knowledge [44], [45].

For broader impact, multi-season and multi-location trials across diverse agroecological zones are essential to validate the consistency and scalability of these findings. Further research into soil microbiome dynamics, molecular-level plant responses, and carbon sequestration potential can deepen our understanding of the mechanisms driving these outcomes [24], [13]. At the policy level, the integration of Vrikshayurveda-based practices into organic farming schemes, agroecology missions, and capacity-building initiatives will be pivotal. Standardization of preparation protocols, quality assurance of inputs, and farmer training programs must be prioritized to ensure safe and effective large-scale adoption.

In conclusion, this study not only bridges ancient agricultural wisdom with contemporary sustainability challenges but also offers a replicable model for integrating traditional bio-inputs into modern agroecosystems, thereby reinforcing ecological balance, economic viability, and cultural continuity in Indian agriculture.

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