Journal of Applied Animal Research (Dec 2024)

Evaluation of black Cumin (Bunium persicum), Ajwain (Carum copticum) and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) dietary supplementation on growth performance, blood metabolites, ileal digestibility, bone strength and in broilers

  • Abdul Hafeez,
  • Altaf Ahmad,
  • Muhammad Sohail,
  • Shabana Naz,
  • Ibrahim A. Alhidary,
  • Samia Abdelrahman,
  • Vincenzo Tufarelli

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1080/09712119.2024.2427004
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 52, no. 1

Abstract

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This study aimed to evaluate the effects of herbal plants (HP) consisting of black Cumin (Bunium persicum), Ajwain (Carum copticum) and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) on broiler performance and health. A total of 360 broilers were allocated into four groups consisting of control diet (A) or supplemented with a mixture of Ajwain, Fenugreek and black Cumin seeds at the rate of 1.5 (B), 3 (C) and 4.5 g/kg (D). Results showed that feed intake was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in Group-C during the 6th week. Weight gain in Group-C was also significantly (P < 0.05) higher in 6th weeks compared to other groups. FCR was significantly (P < 0.05) improved in Group-C at week 6. The apparent ileal digestibility of crude protein and fat was highest in Group-C, showing significant (P < 0.05) improvements. Blood analysis revealed lower total cholesterol and LDL levels in Group-B and -C, while HDL was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in group-C. Bone quality assessments indicated that the tibiotarsal index was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in Group-C, suggesting enhanced bone strength. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of PFAs, particularly at 3 g/kg, significantly improved growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood biochemistry and bone quality in broilers.

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