Inclusion of phytogenic feed additives comparable to vitamin E in diet of growing rabbits: Effects on metabolism and growth

The potential contribution of two phytogenic feed additives compared with vitamin E to act as growth promoters was investigated. A total of 150, five weeks, V-line rabbits were fed basal diet supplemented with 150 mg/kg vitamin E (VE), 150 or 300 mg/kg propolis (LP or HP), 150 or 300 mg/kg moringa roots (LM or HM) or not (Con, no additives) for five weeks. Both LM and HM increased (P < 0.05) percentage of lymphocytes, while decreased (P < 0.05) ratio of neutrophil to lymphocyte compared to the other groups. Concentration of plasma glucose was higher (P < 0.05) in the HP-group than in the control, but it recorded intermediate values in the other groups. Compared to control, all dietary supplements improved (P < 0.05) plasma total antioxidant capacity. Concentrations of plasma low density lipoprotein and malondialdehyde were decreased (P < 0.05) in VE, LP and HP-groups, but were intermediate in the LM and HM−groups. Live body weights of rabbits were higher (P < 0.05) in the VE, LP and HP-groups than in the Con-group, whereas were intermediate in the LM and HM−groups. The lowest feed conversion ratios were in the VE and LP-groups. All dietary supplementations did not affect most of the carcass traits, but decreased (P < 0.05) the abdominal fat percentage. The results indicated the potential of VE and LP for improving growth and antioxidant status of growing rabbits.