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

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the physiological response of broiler birds to oral supplementation with Aloe vera and neem leaf extracts. A total of 120 broiler birds were randomly divided into four groups with three replicates per group. The control group received a standard diet without any supplementation, while the other three groups were supplemented with Aloe vera extract, neem leaf extract, and a combination of both extracts in their drinking water for a period of six weeks. Various physiological parameters including body weight, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, hematological parameters, serum biochemistry, and antioxidant status were assessed at the end of the experimental period. The results indicated that the group supplemented with a combination of Aloe vera and neem leaf extracts showed significantly higher body weight gain compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Feed intake was also improved in the supplemented groups, with the combination group showing the highest feed intake among all groups. Additionally, the feed conversion ratio was significantly lower in the supplemented groups, indicating better utilization of feed for growth and maintenance. Hematological parameters such as red blood cell count, white blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit levels were within the normal range for all groups, with no significant differences observed among the groups. Serum biochemistry analysis revealed that supplementation with Aloe vera and neem leaf extracts led to a significant decrease in serum cholesterol levels compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the combination group showed the highest antioxidant activity, as indicated by elevated levels of superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione. In conclusion, oral supplementation with Aloe vera and neem leaf extracts positively influenced the physiological response of broiler birds, leading to improved body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, serum cholesterol levels, and antioxidant status. The combination of Aloe vera and neem leaf extracts exhibited synergistic effects on the growth performance and health parameters of the broiler birds. Further studies are warranted to explore the mechanisms underlying these physiological responses and to optimize the dosage and duration of supplementation for maximum benefits in broiler production.