Efficacy of Chromolaena odorata (Siam weed) on performance, haematological and serum biochemical indices of broiler chicken

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of graded levels of Chromolaena odorata leaf extract on the performance, haematological and biochemical parameters of heat-stressed broiler chickens. A total of 120 day-old broiler chickens were randomly assigned to four treatment groups in a completely randomized design (CRD). The birds we fed graded levels of 0.0ml, 20ml, 40ml and 60ml of chromolaena odorata extract via drinking water. Data were collected on performance characteristics, haematological indices and serum biochemistry. Results from the study indicate that there were significant (P<0.05) differences on the final body weight, body weight gain and average daily weight gain as they increased progressively with increasing levels of inclusion of Chromolaena odorata leaf extract. Feed conversion ratio decreased with increasing levels of inclusion.The total white blood cell (WBC) and Lymphocyte counts of the birds were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the treatments. There were significant (P<0.05) differences on total cholesterol and globulin glucose. Results obtained from this study revealed that the inclusion of 40ml of Chromolaena odorata leaf extract improved the growth performance as well as the health status of the birds without having any detrimental effect on the birds during thermal stress. Key words: Chromolaena odorata; Siam Weed; Haematology; Cholesterol; Biochemical and Performanc