Efficacy of tulsi leaves and neem leaves extract in broiler production

The efficacy of tulsi (Ocimum sactum) and neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves extract as a growth promoter were studied in broiler. A total of 40 day-old broiler chicks were purchased from Kazi hatchery and after three days of acclimatization the chicks were randomly divided into four groups (n=10). No vaccination schedule was practiced and no antibiotic was added in ration of group A, B, C, and D respectively. Group A served control without any supplements while group B, C and D were supplemented with combination of tulsi and neem extract @ 1 ml, 2ml and 3 ml/liter of drinking water. Live body weight gain was recorded weekly up to 6th weeks and hematological studies were performed at 21st and 42nd day of experiments. At the end of 42nd day of experiment final body weight of group A, B, C and D were 1561± 12.10 g, 1698± 12.87 g, 1608± 12.04 g and 1763± 13.28 g, respectively. The birds of group D utilized their feed more efficiently among the treatment groups (p<0.05). The net body weight gain were, 1533± 11.98 g, 1443± 11.32 g and 1588± 12.10 g in treated groups compared to control group (1393± 11.07 g ) and total net profit per broiler was 19.08, 40.10, 20.68 and 45.07 Taka , respectively. Hematological parameterss (TEC, PCV, Hb and ESR) were not significantly changed among the treated and control group suggesting no side effects of herbal extracts in broiler. It can be concluded that tulsi and neem extract is economic and safe in broiler production.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v11i1.17728 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2013). 11 (1): 1- 5