Biochemical and Blood Lipid Parameters of Broiler Chickens Fed Sagebrush (Artemisia Herba-Alba Asso)

Abstract

The use of medicinal plants in animal feed has gained attention due to their pharmacologicalproperties, cost-effectiveness, and availability. This study evaluated the effects of an infusion from Artemisiaherba-alba (white wormwood) on biochemical and lipid parameters in broiler chickens. Two hundred one-dayold Cobb 500 chicks were divided into a control group (plain water) and an experimental group (Artemisia infusion) over 31 days. The infusion was prepared by steeping 60 g of Artemisia powder in 1 liter of water for 8hours, then diluting it in 40 liters. Weekly measurements included live weight, feed intake, water consumption,feed conversion ratio (FCR), and mortality. Blood samples were analyzed for glucose, urea, creatinine, totalproteins, cholesterol (total, HDL, LDL), and triglycerides. Results showed significant increases in blood glucose(2.37 g/L vs. 1.61 g/L) and triglycerides (0.65 g/L vs. 0.29 g/L) in the treated group, indicating effects oncarbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Total cholesterol also increased (1.17 g/L vs. 1.04 g/L)while HDL cholesterol slightly decreased (0.55 g/L vs. 0.59 g/L). LDL cholesterol rose (0.49 g/L vs. 0.39 g/L), suggestingmodulation of lipoprotein metabolism. Renal function (urea, creatinine) and total protein levels remained stable,indicating no adverse effects on kidney function or protein synthesis. These effects are attributed to bioactivecompounds in Artemisia herba-alba, such as flavonoids and terpenoids, known to influence energy and lipidmetabolism. The study highlights its potential as a natural feed additive to improve broiler metabolic health.However, further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and long-term implications. This worksupports the use of medicinal plants as sustainable alternatives to synthetic additives in poultry production.