Influence of Spearmint (Mentha spicata) growth performance, hematological and lipid profile of broiler

Introduction: Antibiotics and growth stimulants provide health hazards, prompting a demand for antibiotic-free organic broiler production. Natural plant-based feed additives are both safe and cost-efficient. This study aimed to thoroughly investigate the dietary impact of spearmint in various dosages on broiler production performance, hematobiochemical profile, bacterial load, and cost-effective performance. Materials and methods: In the experiment, a total of 225-day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly selected into five experimental groups, each consisting of three replications of 15 birds. Groups T0, T1, T2, T3, and T4 consumed basal feed supplemented with 0 ml, 1 ml, 2 ml, 3 ml, and 4 ml of spearmint juice, and the treatment was given at 7 days to 28 days, respectively. Results: In this study, the T0 and T4 groups' total feed intake was considerably (P 0.05) lower than that of the T1, T2, and T3 groups. Following T1, T3, T4, and T0 groups, group T2 received a 2 ml spearmint treatment, which resulted in a considerably (P 0.05) greater final live weight. The T2 group had a significantly (P 0.05) better feed conversion ratio (FCR) in comparison to the T0, T1, T3, and T4 groups. The weight of the broiler chicken's organs (carcass weight, thigh, breast muscle, drumsticks, wings meat, liver, heart, gizzard, and other organs) and dressing % were significantly affected by any of the treatment groups (P 0.05). Dietary additions affected (P 0.05) the hematobiochemical parameters (concentration of haemoglobin, ESR, WBC, RBC, and lipid profile). Compared to the T0 group, the faecal bacterial load was reduced in the T1, T2, T3, and T4 groups. Conclusion: T2 is more cost-effective than other groups because of their faster rate of body growth. The 2% spearmint-treated group had birds with increased body weight, better FCR, and higher feed intake. Overall, 2% spearmint addition proved to be more beneficial than other treatment groups.