Artemisia argyi essential oil modulates gut microbiota to influence serum metabolism in rabbits: effects on growth, meat quality, and organ index

ABSTRACT This study aims to evaluate the effects of Artemisia argyi essential oil (AAEO) on the growth, meat quality, carcass performance, organ index, intestinal microbiota, and serum metabolome of Hycole rabbits. A total of 96 Hycole rabbits, aged 35 days, were randomly assigned to four groups, with six replicates per group and four rabbits per replicate. The rabbits were fed a basal diet (without AAEO) or diets supplemented with 100, 200, or 300 mg/kg of AAEO for 35 days. Supplementation with AAEO at 100 mg/kg increased the average daily feed intake (ADFI) and the organ index of the sacculus rotundus, whereas the addition of 300 mg/kg AAEO to the diet resulted in a reduction in ADFI compared to the control group ( P < 0.05). AAEO intervention enhanced the colonization of Cloacibacillus and [Eubacterium]_ruminantium_group in the cecum of rabbits ( P < 0.05). A total of 120 differential metabolites were identified in the serum, which were primarily enriched in glycerophospholipid metabolism and linoleic acid metabolism pathways. Integrated analysis revealed consistency between the cecal microbiota and serum metabolites. In summary, dietary supplementation with AAEO at 100 mg/kg optimizes gut microbial composition, alters serum lipid absorption and metabolic processes, and contributes to improved health in rabbits. IMPORTANCE This study provides a scientific basis for using traditional Chinese medicinal herbs as feed additives in rabbit production. The findings hold significant value for enhancing rabbit meat quality, decreasing antibiotic dependency, and promoting the production of healthier meat products for human consumption.