This study aimed to investigate the possible anticoccidial efficacy of Moringa oleifera leaves vs. Diclazuril, as well as production performance and antioxidant activities in broilers exposed to experimental coccidiosis. A total of 160 one-day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly allocated into four groups (n=40) as follows: Group 1: unchallenged, untreated; Group 2: challenged, untreated; Group 3: challenged, treated with diclazuril 1mg/kg ration; and Group 4: challenged, treated with Moringa oleifera leaves (20g/kg ration). The birds of all groups except those of group1 were challenged with mixed Eimeria species at the day 14th of the experiment. The mortality rates were 14.8 % in Group 2, 8.8 % in Groups 3 and zero % in group 4. A significant improvement of the final body weight and the feed conversion ratio induced by Moringa oleifera group when compared with that obtained by diclazuril group. The average lesion score was decreased in medicated groups with a better effect in the caecum for Group 3, while Group 4 exhibited a much decrease in lesion score in the upper and the lower intestinal parts and in the caecum. The average oocysts count in Groups 3 and 4 was 7.9x103 and 14.5x103, respectively, while Group 2 had 67.1x103 oocysts. Furthermore, both Moringa oleifera leaves and Diclazuril increased plasma carotenoids levels and growth performance, as well as decreased oxidative stress. Moringa oleifera leaves were found to be as effective as diclazuril against coccidiosis. It could be concluded that, Moringa Oleifera could be useful as alternative product for the control of coccidiosis in poultry production. In addition to its growth promoting effect, as well as its antioxidant effects.
Key words: Coccidiosis, Moringa oleífera, Diclazuril, Plasma carotenoid, Gas chromatography.
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