Ameliorative Role of Some Herbal Powders and Vitamins in Enhancing the Effectiveness of Antibacterial Agents and Performance of Broiler Chicken's

Abstract

This study evaluated a polyherbal mixture (PHM) and trace elements as alternatives to antibiotics in poultry production, focusing on performance, carcass composition, lipid profiles, and intestinal morphology under heat stress conditions. The experiment lasted 40 days and used a 2 x 3 factorial design, with trace elements at 0 and 5 g/kg and PHM at 0, 25, and 50 g/kg. Adding varying levels of PHM to the diet significantly increased the relative weight of the Bursa of Fabricius at 5% (P<0.05). However, it did not affect other organs, small intestine length, ceca, average weight gain (AWG), or feed intake (AFI) (P>0.05). PHM-treated groups also showed lower mortality rates in heat-stressed chickens. Additionally, the inclusion of PHM and trace elements did not significantly alter liver enzyme levels, glucose, uric acid, or lipid profiles compared to the control group (P>0.05). However, the group receiving 5% trace elements experienced a notable reduction in triglyceride and very low-density lipoprotein levels (P<0.05). Salmonella sp. and E. coli O157:H7 were found in the control and trace element groups but not in the cecal digesta of the PHM groups. The PHM extract demonstrated significant antibacterial effects against these strains and E. coli ATCC at 20 mg compared to other antibiotics. In conclusion, PHM contains bioactive components with antibacterial properties against E. coli and Salmonella species. It reduces these pathogens in the cecal content of heat-stressed chickens, improves feed intake, and lowers mortality rates. Thus, PHM is an effective antibacterial agent for chickens, helping to reduce microbial resistance.