Areca catechu L. and Anredera cordifolia (Ten) Steenis supplementation reduces faecal parasites and improves caecal histopathology in laying hens.

Abstract

Some studies have shown that the betel nut Areca catechu L and "binahong" leaves Anredera cordifolia (Ten) Steenis have anti-parasite and wound healing properties. This study evaluated the effect of A. catechu nut and A. cordifolia leaves powder supplementation on faecal parasite number and type, histopathology of the intestine, caecum, associated organs, some serum biochemistry, and egg production of laying hens. Twenty-four 54-week-old ISA-brown laying hens from local layer farmers were assigned randomly into 4-treatment groups: 1) without supplementation (T₀), 2) supplemented with 0.25% (T_0.25%), 3) 0.5% (T_0.5%), 4) 1.0% (T_1.0%). We carried out the supplementation for 18 days by administering A. catechu nut powder for 3-days, and subsequently, A. cordifolia leaves powder for another 3-days for 3-rounds to control the parasite larvae. Faecal parasite count and type were enumerated at the beginning and end of treatment. Egg production was recorded daily during the 18 days experiment. Blood was sampled at the end of the experiment to determine serum albumin, globulin, and transaminases. The intestinal tract, liver, and spleen samples were collected at the end of the study for histopathological examination. Faecal Ascaridia galli in control hens increased by 87.5% after 18 days of the experiment, while A. catechu nut and A. cordifolia leaves powder supplementation prevented such an increase. Supplemented hens have a better reduction of Railentina cesticillus compared to control birds. Supplementation improved intestinal and other tissue histopathology, especially in the caecum (free of erosion), improving serum albumin and transaminases without affecting egg production.