Effect of Methanolic Extract of (Vernonia amygdalina) on the Haematology and Lipid Profile of Rabbit Does

This study investigated the effects of methanolic extract of Vernonia amygdalina on the haematological and lipid profiles of rabbit does. A total of 24 rabbit does, aged 8–12 months, were randomly allocated to four treatment groups (T1, T2, T3, and T4) in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), with six does per group. T1 served as the control and received no extract, while T2, T3, and T4 were administered 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract, respectively, over a four-week period. Blood samples were collected at three time points: prior to extract administration, midway through the experiment, and at the end of the study. Haematological parameters were evaluated, and sera were analyzed for lipid profile components using standard laboratory procedures. The results revealed that Vernonia amygdalina extract exhibited dose-dependent immunostimulatory effects, maintained red blood cell indices, and significantly improved lipid profile parameters. Specifically, the extract reduced levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) while increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). These changes occurred without adverse physiological effects on the experimental rabbit does. In conclusion, the methanolic extract of Vernonia amygdalina demonstrated potential as a natural immunostimulant and lipid-modulating agent, suggesting its application in enhancing the health and productivity of livestock.