Vol. 9, Special Issue 4, Part G (2025)

A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with Sahjan (Moringa oleifera Lam.) leaf meal on hematological parameters, serum total immunoglobulin concentration and antioxidant activity in broiler Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). A total of 288 day-old chicks were randomly allocated into eight dietary treatment groups, with each group consisting of 36 chicks divided into three replicates of 12 birds each.

The control group (T₁) received a standard basal diet (starter and finisher), while T₂ and T₃ were supplemented with Vitamin C at 200 mg/kg and Vitamin E at 10 IU/kg, respectively. Treatment groups T₄ through T₈ received the basal diet incorporated with Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) at inclusion levels of 1.0%, 3.0%, 5.0%, 7.0%, and 9.0%, respectively.

The results indicated that hematological parameters—including hemoglobin concentration (Hb), heterophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts, as well as the heterophil to lymphocyte (H/L) ratio—were significantly (p≤0.05) improved in the T5 group (3.0% MOLM) and were lowest in the T8 group (9.0% MOLM). However, serum total immunoglobulin concentrations (g/L) did not differ significantly (p≥0.05) across the treatment groups.

With regard to antioxidant activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels (U/ml) in serum, breast, and thigh muscles were significantly (p≤0.05) higher in the T₄ group (1.0% MOLM) and lowest in the T8 group (9.0% MOLM).

In conclusion, dietary incorporation of 3.0% Moringa oleifera leaf meal appears to be optimal for enhancing the hematological profile, maintaining serum immunoglobulin levels, and improving antioxidant efficacy in broiler Japanese quail.