Supplementation with aqueous extract of Talinum triangulare and effect on the hematology and serum biochemistry in growing pullets

The effects of administration of Talinum triangulare aqueous extract on the hematology and serum biochemistry of growing pullets was studied. Ninety ISA Brown chicks purchased at 1 day old were randomly assigned into three groups: PA, PB, and PC. Pullets in groups PA and PB received 1000 mg of extract from dried T. triangulare and from freshly harvested T. triangulare per liter of water, respectively. Pullets in group PC served as the unsupplemented control. Hematology and serum biochemistry were evaluated at 2-month intervals within the 6-month period of the experiment following standard procedures. Feed and water were administered ad libitum. Supplementation with T. triangulare extract led to significant (P < 0.05) increase in serum high-density lipoprotein concentration and significant (P < 0.05) decrease in serum low-density lipoprotein concentration. Aspartate aminotransferase activity was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the supplemented groups. Serum albumin was significantly (P < 0.05) higher at month four of pullet life. It was concluded that dietary supplementation with aqueous extract of Talinum triangulare had no deleterious effect on hematology and serum proteins and enzymes, and it had a positive effect on lipid profile. It is therefore recommended for use as a nutraceutical for healthy rearing of growing pullets.