Justicia Secunda: a Poultry Phytogenic Growth Promoter

Abstract Aqueous and ethanol leaf-extracts of Justicia secunda, were investigated for possible application as poultry growth promoters. Vitamins, minerals and phytochemical compositions of the leaves were investigated using standard methods. Seventy-two broilers were grouped into nine with eight birds per treatment through random selection and bred for period of eight weeks. Growth and meat quality evaluations, biochemical and hematological assessment of the blood were done using standard methods. Results revealed that the plant contained water-soluble vitamins, fat-soluble vitamins, macro-elements, trace-elements, alkaloids and polyphenols necessary for improving poultry performances. It was observed that the extracts improved meat quality of the broilers more than control groups, as the drip and cooking losses of the broilers were lower. Also, there were improved blood proteins (total protein, albumin, globulin) and hematological indices of the broilers. Consequently, leaf-extracts of J. secunda could serve as replacements for chemical growth promoters with aqueous extracts as the better choice having produced better effects than ethanol extracts.