Dietary supplementation of Moringa oleifera leaf extract enhances productivity, carcass yield, gut microbiota and biomarker profiles in broiler chickens

Plant feed additives produced as herbs, spices, and botanical extracts have presented themselves as possible substitutes for antimicrobial growth promoters (AGPs). These agents are valued for their growth-stimulating activities, antimicrobial effects, antioxidative properties, and immunomodulatory effects. This study aimed to determine the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) on the growth performance, carcass attributes, and physiological indicators of broiler chickens. A total of 240 one-day-old broiler chicks were assigned to four treatments: a control (no MOLE) and three levels of dietary MOLE (100, 200, and 400 mg MOLE/kg feed) for a feeding period of 42 days. Growth performance characteristics, such as weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and feed intake per day, were measured. Carcass characteristics and blood samples were examined at the end of the trial for liver and kidney function biomarkers, antioxidant enzymes, and lipid profiles. The supplementation of MOLE in diet significantly increased weight gain and FCR, especially at the level of 200 mg/kg. The inclusion of MOLE has been observed to improve carcass yield, particularly in the breast and thigh muscles of broilers. Furthermore, the MOLE-supplemented groups exhibited lower serum cholesterol levels, increased activity of some antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GPx), and improved liver and kidney function markers. In conclusion, MOLE has great potential as a feed additive to increase the productivity and improve the physiological health of broilers.