Abstract

Background:
Broilers have certain disadvantages, namely high levels of fat and cholesterol in their meat and susceptibility to disease infection. Furthermore, the ban on the use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGP), which can cause side effects, presents a challenge. Based on this, safe natural feed additives are sought, one of which utilizes betel leaf water extract.

Aim:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of administering betel leaf water extract via drinking water on pathogenic bacterial populations and blood lipid profiles in broilers.

Methods:
A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used with 4 treatments, 5 replications, and each unit consisting of 6 day-old chicks (DOC). The treatments were A (control group, without betel leaf water extract/BLWE), B (drinking water with 2% BLWE), C (drinking water with 4% BLWE), and D (drinking water with 6% BLWE). The variables observed were blood lipid profiles and pathogenic bacteria in the broiler intestine.

Results:
Triglycerides and LDL decreased significantly (P < 0.05) with BLWE administration, up to 6%. Meanwhile, HDL increased significantly (P < 0.05) at the 6% BLWE level compared to the control treatment (A). Total cholesterol significantly (P < 0.05) decreased with 6% BLWE administration. Total pathogenic E. coli bacteria significantly (P < 0.05) decreased with 6% BLWE administration, and Coliform significantly (P < 0.05) decreased at BLWE levels of 4% and 6%.

Conclusion:
This study indicates that administering BLWE at up to 6% can improve blood lipid profiles and reduce pathogenic E. coli and Coliform bacteria.

Key words: Broiler performance; Gut health; Natural feed additives; Piper betle; Phytogenic feed additives.