Toxicopathological effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Azadirachta indica leaf (Neem) in broiler birds

Effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Azadirachta indica (Neem leaves) as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoter - Bacitracin methylene diasalicylate (BMD) was evaluated in broiler chicks. Neem leaves were dried in shade, pulverized and Azadirachta indica extract (AIE) was obtained by Soxhlet's extraction in the mixture of 50% methanol and 50% water mixed (AIE; 0.4 g/L) in drinking water and given to the chicks of respective treatment groups daily for 42 days. Ninety broiler chicks (day-old) were randomly assigned to 3 groups and each group of 3 replicates with 10 chicks of each: T1 (Control diet), T2 (Standard BMD @ 0.05% in feed) and T3 supplemented with AIE (0.4 g/L). A depression in body weight, body weight gain and highest FCR was observed in chicks fed with AIE as compared to control. Clinico-pathological changes of increase in AST, ALT, uric acid and creatinine concentrations indicated hepato-nephrotoxicity. Significant lower level of packed cell volume and lymphocyte count was observed in AIE supplemented group. Histopathologically, liver showed sinusoidal congestion, haemorrhage, degenerative and necrotic changes. Kidney exhibited severe haemorrhages and degenerative changes. Heart revealed degenerative changes, separation of cardiac muscle fibres and infiltration of lymphocytes. Results showed that Azadirachta indica (neem) leaf extract is toxic, with hepato-nephrotoxicity being dose-dependent and should be used with caution in ethno-veterinary practice.