Blood Parameters, Kidney Histology and Growth Performances in Gallus gallus Domesticus (Brahma) Hens Fed a Diet Supplemented with Dacryodes edulis (Safou) Powder Leaves

Abstract

The leaf extracts of Dacryodes edulis possess high concentrations of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, and tannins with various biological activities, including antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities. These activities can be used in animal production to avoid the energy lost in favor of growth and reproduction. A total of 48 Brahma hens (45 days old), weighing on average 400 ± 12 g, were randomly distributed into four dietary treatment groups (12 birds each) with four replicates per group. The control group (T0) received 0% D. edulis, while the three test groups (T0.25, T0.50, and T0.75) were given feed with D. edulis powder leaves at concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75%, respectively, for a period of 60 days. Water and feed were supplied ad libitum. At the end of the study period (60 days), eight birds per treatment (two per replicate) were fasted, weighed, and slaughtered. Blood samples and organs were collected for analysis of growth characteristics, oxidative stress, and toxicity indices. This study revealed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in feed intake and live body weight with 0.75% D. edilus powder leaves. Abdominal fat was found to be significantly (p < 0.05) lower with 0.75% D. edilus powder leaves compared to the control group. Serum Aspartate aminotransferase activity was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in birds exposed to 0.75% D. edulis leaf powder compared to the control group. The use of D. edulis leaf powder as feed additive in feed could reduce oxidative stress and improve growth performance in Brahma. More research can be conducted on D. edilus, and it can be used in broiler feed at 0.75% concentration, which has shown a significant increase and decrease, respectively, in live body weight and serum aspartate aminotransferase activity.