Studies on the Effect of the Combination of Boerhavia Diffusa and Costus Afer Leaf extracts on the Haematological Parameters of Broiler Chickens

Abstract

Ethanol extracts of Boerhavia diffusa and Costus afer and their combination were tested for their effects on haematological parameters of broiler chicken and possible synergistic effect due to their combination. The parameters were Red Blood Cell count, White Blood Cell count, Platelet count, Blood Glucose Packed Cell Volume, Haemoglobin content and Electrolyte concentration. At the end of the analysis period of four weeks, it was found that B. diffusa extract and the combination of the two extracts increased red blood cell count significantly above the control and those fed with C. afer extract. However, C. afer extract increased the white blood cell count from 10.1 to 13.1 x 1012 , B. diffusa extract from 10.7 to 11.8 x 1012 and the combination from 11.5 to 12 x 1012. The control value remained constant. All the extracts, including the combination increased platelet count significantly above the control. Blood glucose was most significantly reduced by the combination of the two extracts, while other samples including the control showed constant values. The packed cell volume (PCV) and haemoglobin content showed a drop in value in all samples except those fed a combination of the two extracts, which increased PCV value from 32-33% and increased haemoglobin values from 10.7 to 11g/dl. Electrolyte concentration at the end of research period ranged from 97.8 to 104.5 for chloride, 3.6 to 4.3 for potassium ion and 138.4 to 142.6 for sodium ion.