Association of Peganum harmala L. Supplementation with Lipid Profile and its Economic Benefit in Broiler Production

Concentration of cholesterol and other lipids in human diet has been an issue of public health concern. In present study the effects of methanolic extract of Peganum harmala L. (P. harmala) on serum lipid profile and feeding cost of broiler birds were investigated in a 28-days feeding trial. Total 240 one-week old broiler chicks were divided into four groups (Ph-0, Ph-200, Ph-250 and Ph-300) that were replicated six times (10 birds/replicate) and were randomly given methanolic extract @ 0, 200, 250 and 300 mgL^-1 of drinking water, respectively. Standard management practices were adopted. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. At the end of every week, two birds from each replicate were randomly selected to collect blood samples for serum lipid profile determination. Serum samples were analyzed for total cholesterol, high and low density lipoprotein and triglycerides. Triglycerides were measured by the enzymatic calorimetric method. Total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol showed gradual significant decrease and nevertheless HDL gradual increase with the increasing dose levels of P. harmala up to 250 mgL^-1 of drinking water. Feed cost was significantly (P 0.05) reduced by methanolic extract of P. harmala and was the lowest in group Ph-250. The same group had the highest (P 0.05) gross return compared to other treatments. It is concluded that methanolic extract of P. harmala @ 250 mgL^-1 drinking water could be effectively used in broilers to optimize serum lipid profile, to reduce feeding cost and to maximize gross return.