The use of copaiba oil in broiler chicks feed to replace antibiotic caused an anti-inflammatory effect and promoted weight gain

摘要

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of copaiba oils (Copaifera reticulata and Copaifera duckei) on the health and performance of broiler chicks along with their anti-inflammatory activity. The experiment was performed in duplicate, using 60 chicks at a time. Groups were formed by broiler chicks fed with basal diet (control); basal diet and antibiotic (zinc bacitracin, 25 mg/kg of feed); basal diet and copaiba oil (0.15 mL/kg of feed); and basal diet and copaiba oil (0.30 mL/kg of feed) for 15 days. Sampling was performed on days 7 and 15 of life. Animals treated with 0.15 mL/kg of copaiba showed higher body weight (p < 0.05). The addition of copaiba oil in the diet caused a reduction in total leukocytes, mainly due to a reduction of lymphocytes (p < 0.001). Biochemical variables, such as total protein, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, and uric acid, did not differ between groups (p>0.05); however, glucose and triglyceride levels were reduced on days 7 and 15 in animals that received copaiba oil, respectively (p < 0.05). No histopathological lesions were observed in the jejunum of all groups. Crypt and villus sizes were lower in animals treated with 0.15 mL/kg of copaiba oil. It is possible to conclude that copaiba vegetable oil at a dose of 0.15 mL/kg improved body weight gain and have anti-inflammatory effect.