Supplementation of Withania somnifera (Linn.) Dunal Roots in Broiler diets

What is it about?

Basal broiler’s diet supplementation with 0, 0.11% antibiotic, 1.25, 2.5 or 5.0% Withania somnifera roots (WSR) was investigated. At 28 and 42 days of age, birds fed diets supplemented with 2.5 or 5.0% WSR had greater body weight than those fed diets with 1.25% WSR and negative control. WSR included in the broiler’s diet up to 2.5 or 5.0% did not have any deleterious effects on their performance, immunity, serum biochemical constituents and haematological indices.

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Why is it important?

As a result of antibiotics ban in the EU and growing pressure on livestock producers in the world, alternative substances and strategies for animal growth promotion and disease prevention are being investigated. Withania somnifera (Solanaceae) is a shrub found throughout drier parts of Pakistan & India. The main constituents of W. somnifera roots are alkaloids and steroidal lactone, but withanine, the main alkaloid preset in its roots and leaves, is thought to be responsible for its biological activity. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of using W. somnifera roots on the broiler performance, antioxidant status, blood constituents and immunity.

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