Olive leaf extract and coconut oil rectal enema: a new ayurverdic therapeutical strategy for feline atopic skin syndrome

Abstract

Enemas, historically and traditionally, have been used for management of several disorders, as well as to proper prescribing fluids and drugs. The aim of the present study was to manage feline atopic skin syndrome by use of coconut oil and olive leaf extract via rectal enema. A total of 6 cats with Feline Atopic Syndrome presenting cutaneous reaction pattern, subclassified as face, head, neck pruritus met diagnostic criteria at this study. Initial diagnostic interventions included a) lab work (clinical findings, cytology and dermatological examination along with dermatoscopy), b) dietary changes (limited carbohydrate diet), c) Polycheck in vitro allergy test for allergen-specific immunoglobulin E detection in serum, d) hematological/serum biochemical analytes, e) endocrine panels and f) clinical scoring by use of Feline Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index and owners assessment of pruritus using a 10 cm visual analogue scale with grade descriptors. There were statistically significant decreases throughout the study (on days 0 and 10) regarding the Feline Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index and visual analogue scale pruritus scores. Pre-treatment and post-treatment comparisons analyzed via non-parametric Wilcoxon test and parametric Paired-sample T denoted that the day 0 scores were significantly higher than the scores at day 10 (p < 0.001 in each case). In cats administered rectal enema olive leaf extract and coconut oil for 10 days, all had significantly decreased Feline Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index from 121,5 ± 44,4 to 14,0 ± 6,0 (p=0.028). Futhermore significant alterations for pruritus visual analogue scale from 6,5 ± 2,7 to 1,5 ± 1,2 (p=0.027). No adverse events attributable to the olive leaf extract and coconut oil therapy were reported in any of the cats, and adverse events.