The Effect of Dietary Garlic (Allium Sativum), Black Cumin (Nigella Sativa) and Their Combination on Performance, Intestine Morphometry, Serum Biochemistry and Antioxidant Status of Broiler Chickens

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the effects of garlic (G), black cumin (BC) and G+BC within the broiler rations, on performance, relative organ weights, intestinal morphology, serum biochemistry and plasma total oxidant/ antioxidant status. Two hundred broilers chicks (Ross 308) were used and they were divided into 4 groups consisting of 5 subgroups of 10 animals each. The trial was ended on the 35th day. No addition was made to the control group ration. 5g / kg garlic (G), 5g / kg black cumin (BC) and 5g / kg G + 5g / kg BC were added to the experimental group rations, respectively. There was no statistical difference among the trial groups in terms of BWG, FI, FCR and relative organ weights (p>0.05). Serum total protein (p<0.05) and albumin (p<0.001) levels were higher in BC and BC +G groups as compared to G and control group. Serum AST activity were lower in G group as compared to control and other experimental groups (p<0.05). On histological examinations, regarding the duodenal epithelium; there was no difference among the trial groups. Hyperemia was observed, especially in the G group, in macroscopic exams of lamina propria and other viticular areas. The lymph follicles were more wide spread in the G + BC, G and BC groups than in the control. The results of the study showed that the combination of BC and G can have beneficial effects, and different doses of G and BC may be used to see positive or negative effects.