Dietary Inclusion of <i>Artemisia annua</i> Improves Antioxidant Performance, Immunoglobulin Protein Levels, Lipid Profile, Carcass Characteristics, Meat Quality, and Histomorphometric Features of Broiler Chickens

Abstract Artemisia annua L. ( A. annua) , renowned for its medicinal properties, was investigated for its effects on broiler performance, biochemistry, antioxidant capacity, meat composition, and organ histology. A total of 90 one-day-old chicks were divided into four groups, each with three replicates. The chicks were fed either a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with A. annua leaves meal at levels of 0.3%, 0.6%, or 0.9% over a period of 42 days. A. annua decreased mortality, final body weight, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio, but improved dressing percentages and liver/gizzard weights (P&lt;0.05). Serum analysis revealed reduced alanine/aspartate aminotransferase, cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, while total protein, albumin, globulin, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and IgM levels increased (P&lt;0.05). Malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased, while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased (P&lt;0.05), confirming A. annua’s antioxidant activity. Meat analysis showed decreased moisture, fat, and fiber but increased protein content (P&lt;0.05). Sensory evaluation revealed improved taste, color, texture, and overall acceptability. Mild histopathological lesions were observed in A. annua -treated groups. Conclusively, A. annua in broiler diets has antioxidant, hypolipidemic, and immune-enhancing potential. Further studies are needed to evaluate its long-term safety and optimal dose.