Effects of diaoxinxuekang on ascites in broilers

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Nutrition
• Poultry Science

Background:

• Ascites syndrome is a significant concern in broiler production, leading to economic losses.
• Chinese medicine, such as Diaoxinxuekang, is explored for its potential to improve circulation and prevent disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Diaoxinxuekang in preventing ascites in broilers.
• To determine the optimal dosage of Diaoxinxuekang for ascites prevention.

Main Methods:

• Day-old male broilers were randomly assigned to four treatment groups (0, 500, 1,500, 3,500 mg/kg Diaoxinxuekang).
• Birds were reared for 40 days, with specific housing conditions including low temperatures to induce ascites.
• Body weight, feed consumption, organ weights, and ascites incidence were monitored.

Main Results:

• Diaoxinxuekang supplementation increased body weight in the initial 3 weeks without affecting feed consumption.
• Liver weight was reduced in higher Diaoxinxuekang dosage groups (1,500 and 3,500 mg/kg).
• The 3,500 mg/kg dosage significantly decreased the incidence of ascites compared to control and lower dosage groups.

Conclusions:

• Diaoxinxuekang supplementation, particularly at 3,500 mg/kg, effectively reduces ascites incidence in broilers.
• This Chinese medicine demonstrates potential as a preventative strategy for ascites syndrome in poultry.
• Further research may explore the specific mechanisms of Diaoxinxuekang in improving broiler health.