Effect of nano-capsule of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) seeds extract on broiler performance, intestinal micro flora and immune organs index

Abstract

This study aimed to use the chitosan nanoparticles as a carrier of the black cumin seed extract (BCSE) to
enhance the stability of the bioactive compounds in hard conditions and their effects on the growth
performance, intestinal health and the immune organs index in broiler. Method used in the preparation of the
chitosan nanoparticles was by the ionic gelation followed by oven drying at 40 C°. A total of 135 one day old
broilers Ross (308) were divided into 3 treatments groups with 3 replicate per each group and 15 chicks per
each replicate. The treatments were G1 (Control): basal diet without addi ves, G2; basal diet + 0.5% black
cumin seed extract (BCSE), G3: basal diet + 0.5% black cumin seed extract nanopar cles. Results revealed that
the adding of the BCSEN to diets improved (P<0.05) body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ra o
as compared to the G1 and G2 during the periods from 1-21 and 22-42 days, with the exception of food intake,
where there were non-significant differences between the G2 and G3. Also the BCSEN in broiler diets
decreased (P<0.05) total aerobic bacterial and coliform bacterial counts as compared to the G1 and G2. The
results also showed that both BCSE and BCSEN caused a significant increase (P<0.05) in the rela ve weight
index of the immune organs (Spleen, Thymus, and Bursa of Fabricus) as compared to the G1, but the best
results were achieved in the G3, In comparison with the G2. The nano capsula on of the black cumin seed
extract (G3) could profoundly improve the growth performance, intes nal health, and the immune organs
index, and can therefore be used instead of direct usage of the extract in poultry diet.