Work

Evaluation of Vernonia hymenolepis wash water as phytogenic prophylaxis for broiler chicken production

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Risk management in commercial broiler production requires prophylaxis to mitigate unforeseen weight loss, morbidity, and mortality. This study evaluated the efficacy of a non-conventional prophylactic protocol for broiler chickens using Vernonia hymenolepis wash water (VhWW) as a natural alternative to conventional methods. A 42-day feeding trial was conducted with 264 Cobb 500 broiler chicks, comparing ad-libitum access to VhWW from four plant varieties (purple-sweet, purple bitter, green -sweet and green - bitter), processed with or without salt, against a conventional control, a positive control (oxytetracycline 80), and a negative control (tap water) groups. Nutrient analysis revealed that green varieties of V. hymenolepis contained significantly higher levels of protein and key minerals (P<0.05). Salt processing of the wash water inconsistently affected mineral content but significantly increased the antioxidant activity of the purple varieties (P<0.05). In terms of growth, the conventional control showed superior body weight gain and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) during the starter phase, but these advantages diminished in the finisher phase, where the negative control's FCR of 1.25, was significantly superior(P<0.05). The negative control group exhibited an elevated triglyceride level (193.19 mg/dL). Economically, the negative control and all VhWW treatments were statistically similar and more viable than the conventional and positive controls. In conclusion, VhWW supplements present a natural and economically viable prophylactic alternative for broiler production. The study recommends processing the green sweet varieties with salt to maximize their growth-promoting and economic benefits.

Source: Veterinary and Animal Science

DOI: 10.1016/j.vas.2026.100571

Authors: Divine Ewane, Lawrence Monah Ndam, Brandon Rahim Fongang Keubiwou, Boris Nghombuoche, Ewane Ekuh Bazil

Institutions: University of Buea, Benue State University

Language: English

Topic: Animal Nutrition and Physiology

Subfield: Animal Science and Zoology

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,780