Effect of bandotan leaf extract (Ageratum conyzoides L.) on oxidative stress, blood biochemistry and immunity in female quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica Temminck & Schlegel, 1848) reared under tropical conditions

Abstract

Importance of the work: Heat stress causes physiological disorders, decreased immunity
and increased mortality in quail in tropical regions. Bandotan leaf extract has the potential to
address these issues through its antioxidant activity.
Objectives: To investigate the effects of bandotan leaf extract on oxidative stress, blood
biochemistry and immune status in tropical quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica Temminck &
Schlegel, 1848).
Materials and Methods: The study involved 200 female quail. Bandotan leaf extract was
administered daily to birds through their drinking water at concentrations of 0% (as a control),
1.5%, 3% or 4.5%. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design.
The parameters measured were: stress indicators (oxygen saturation, heterophil-tolymphocyte ratio, superoxide dismutase activity, glutathione peroxidase and malondialdehyde
(MDA) levels); blood biochemistry (cholesterol, glucose); and ex vivo bacterial clearance
against Salmonella pullorum.
Results: The administration of bandotan leaf extract had a significant effect (p < 0.05)
on MDA levels, blood cholesterol and the resistance of quails to S. pullorum. A 3% dose
reduced MDA levels by 78.2%, indicating a decrease in oxidative stress and a lowered blood
cholesterol level by 15.4%, reflecting improved lipid metabolism. In addition, the extract
increased resistance to S. pullorum by 5.7%, indicating an enhanced immune response and
a reduction in quail mortality by 71.4%.
Main finding: Administering 3% bandotan leaf extract in drinking water reduced oxidative stress,
lowered cholesterol, enhanced ex vivo antibacterial clearance against S. pullorum and decreased
mortality in female quail, indicating improved physiological resistance during heat exposure.