Vol. 5, Issue 4, Part C (2020)

Author(s): Onyeachonam Favour, Oriaku Ugochi and Okonkwo C

Abstract: To reduce drug resistance and prevent outbreak of coccidiosis in broiler production, Tumeric paste (TP) was administered per os and used as an anticoccidial to raise broiler chickens. Coccidiosis is the bane of the poultry industry causing considerable economic loss. Eimeria species are protozoan parasites and the etiologic agent of coccidiosis causing morbidity and death in poultry. In addition to anticoccidial chemicals and vaccines, natural products are emerging as an alternative and complementary way to control avian coccidiosis. A study was carried out using 60 day old broilers which were randomly allocated into 3 groups: A, infected-treated with 0.5g/kg of turmeric paste, B, infected-treated with 1.0g/kg of turmeric paste and C, infected-untreated control). The groups received equal doses of 16000 sporulated coccidia oocysts orally at week three. Faecal coccidia oocysts counts were evaluated. There was significant difference (p< 0.05) in the means of faecal coccidia oocysts count in group B (0.00±0.00) compared to group A (1.66±0.33) and C (11.67±0.33), thus showing that turmeric paste has anticoccidial effects and works better at the dose of 1.0g/kg of body weight.