Medicinal Effects of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) Supplementation on Growth Performance, Immunity, and Intestinal Health in Broiler Chickens

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) is a medicinal plant rich in bioactive compounds such as essential oils, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and triterpenes, which are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary Lemon balm (LB) supplementation on growth performance, humoral immunity, and intestinal health in broiler chickens. Four hundred male Ross ۳۰۸ broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments: a basal diet (control), basal diet plus ۲۵۰ ppm lincomycin (antibiotic), and basal diet supplemented with ۱%, ۲%, or ۳% LB powder. The experimental period lasted ۴۲ days. Results showed that ۱% LB supplementation significantly improved economic efficiency by reducing feed cost per kg weight gain and increasing return on investment. LB supplementation, particularly at ۱% and ۳%, enhanced antibody titers against Newcastle disease and avian influenza, respectively, indicating improved humoral immunity. All levels of LB reduced serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), uric acid, and creatinine, suggesting better hepatic and renal health. Both antibiotic and LB groups exhibited decreased ileal E. coli counts, while no adverse effects on carcass yield or beneficial intestinal Lactobacillus populations were observed. However, ۳% LB reduced villus height, indicating potential negative effects at higher doses. In conclusion, M. officinalis demonstrates promising potential as a phytogenic feed additive, offering health and economic benefits for broiler production. Its use as a natural alternative to antibiotics could contribute to safer and more sustainable poultry farming.

کلیدواژه ها:

Blood metabolites ، broilers ، Immunity ، lemon balm ، performance