Abstract:
Supplementation of feed with turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been shown to be beneficial in poultry farming. The present study aimed at evaluating the effect of turmeric on the duodenal structure of broiler chickens during the first 42 days of life. A control and three treatment groups (turmeric powder added to feed at the following doses: E1 - 5; E2 - 10; E3 - 20 g/kg feed) were constituted (n = 8). Addition of turmeric powder in the feed resulted in an increase in intestinal villi height and a decrease in crypts depth in case of groups E1 and E2, while the villus height to crypt depth ratio generally did not differ significantly from the control. Turmeric also influenced the histological structure of the duodenum, as well as the presence of IL-6 and TNFα, as evidenced through staining. Addition of 0.5 and 1 % turmeric powder in the feed had evident results on body weight gain.
