COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF ALOE VERA AND VITAMIN E ON IMMUNITY, GROWTH, INTESTINAL HISTOPATHOLOGY AND WOUND HEALING IN RABBITS

Abstract

Background: Aloe vera, a succulent plant belonging to the Liliaceae family, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Objectives: The prevalence of UTIs and development of resistance against the antibiotics is due to unjustified use of antibiotics.
Methodology: This study evaluates the impact of dietary supplementation with Aloe vera extract (PE) and Vitamin E (VE) on
growth performance, meat quality, immune parameters, cytokine induction, and intestinal histopathology in growing rabbits, Results:
Results showed significant improvements in live weight (LW) and average daily gain (ADG) in the PE and VE groups, with the S+PE+VE group exhibiting the highest gains. Meat quality analysis revealed increased muscle redness and reduced water loss in the PE and VE groups. Immunological assays indicated elevated IgM and IgG levels, particularly in the S+PE+VE group, suggesting a synergistic immune enhancement. Cytokine analysis showed decreased IL-6 and increased TNF-α levels in the supplemented groups, indicating modulated cytokine activity. Histopathological examination revealed significant enhancements in intestinal morphology in the S+PE+VE group, including hypertrophy of villi, increased goblet cell count, and enhanced secretory activity, suggesting improved nutrient absorption. Wound healing studies demonstrated accelerated recovery in the S+PE+VE group, with reduced inflammation and faster wound closure. Conclusion: It is concluded that the Aloe vera and Vitamin E supplementation in rabbit feed significantly improves growth performance, meat quality, immune response, intestinal health, and wound healing, highlighting their potential as beneficial dietary supplements in rabbit production and other animal species.