PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSE OF BROILER BIRDS TO ORAL SUPPLEMENTATION WITH ALOE VERA AND NEEM LEAVE EXTRACTS

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The poultry industry faces challenges related to the use of antibiotics as growth promoters in broiler production. As a result, there is a growing interest in exploring natural alternatives such as plant extracts to improve the growth performance and health of broiler birds. This study focused on investigating the physiological response of broiler birds to oral supplementation with aloe vera and neem leaf extracts. Aloe vera and neem are known for their various bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. The study involved dividing broiler birds into four groups a control group with no supplementation, a group supplemented with aloe vera extract, a group supplemented with neem leaf extract, and a group supplemented with a combination of both extracts. The supplementation was administered orally throughout the experimental period. The physiological parameters assessed included growth performance indicators such as body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio. Additionally, blood parameters were analyzed to evaluate the birds' health status, including hematological parameters and serum biochemical profiles. Furthermore, immune response parameters such as antibody titers and cytokine levels were measured to assess the birds' immune function. The results revealed that broiler birds supplemented with aloe vera and neem leaf extracts showed improved growth performance compared to the control group. Birds supplemented with the combination of both extracts exhibited the most significant enhancements in body weight gain and feed conversion ratio. Blood analysis indicated that the supplemented groups had better hematological parameters and serum biochemistry profiles, reflecting improved health status. Moreover, the immune response of the supplemented birds was enhanced, as evidenced by higher antibody titers and cytokine levels compared to the control group. These findings suggest that oral supplementation with aloe vera and neem leaf extracts can positively influence the physiological responses of broiler birds, improving their growth performance, health status, and immune function. In conclusion, the study demonstrates the potential of aloe vera and neem leaf extracts as natural supplements for enhancing the physiological responses of broiler birds. Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying these effects and optimize the supplementation strategies for sustainable poultry production.