Effect of Ocimum sanctum on haematological parameters of broilers fed ochratoxin

Ochratoxin is considered as most toxic mycotoxin in poultry. It is reported to be nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic, teratogenic and immunosuppressive causing a drastic reduction in the lymphoid cell population. In vitro studies had reported inhibitory effect of essential oil of Ocimum sanctum on Aspergillus ochraceous mycelial growth and ochratoxin production. As Ocimum sanctum is widely available and economical, their dry leaves powders were added in feed to observe its effects on haematological parameters. A total of 108 day old broilers were divided into 9 treatments, in duplicate. Each replicates having 6 broilers. Groups T1 was control diet, T2 having 2 ppm ochratoxin, T3 having 2g/Kg feed Ocimum sanctum, T4 having 4g/Kg feed Ocimum sanctum, T5 having 2 ppm ochratoxin along with 2g/Kg feed Ocimum sanctum and T6 having 2 ppm ochratoxin along with 4g/Kg feed Ocimum sanctum, T7 having 4 ppm ochratoxin,T8 and T9 were like T5 and T6 except having 4ppm of ochratoxin instead of 2ppm.. Haematological parameters were studied on 15^th, 25^th and 35^th day of experiment. Haemoglobin, Packed Cell Volume, Total Erythrocyte count, Total Leukocyte count decreased significantly in group T2 and T7 fed ochratoxin. While, these values in groups T3 and T4 were at par with control. Addition of 2 and 4g of Ocimum sanctum in groups T5 and T 6 increased Hb, PCV, TEC and TLC values. While, in group T8 and T9 Hb, PCV and TLC values increased significantly. This may be due to increase in feed intake in these groups probably due to improved digestibility of diet due to Ocimum sanctum. Thus, it was concluded that both 2 and 4g/Kg feed Ocimum sanctum dry leaf powder were effective in reducing the adverse effect of ochratoxin on haemapoietic system of broilers but 2g/Kg feed is recommended as it was economical.