Acta Scientifica Malaysia (ASM)

This study investigated whether adding Ixora coccinea leaf powder (ICLP) to adult roosters’ diets contaminated with aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) could enhance reproductive and organ health. Aflatoxins, especially AFB₁, are particularly harmful to chickens, damaging their internal and reproductive systems. Dietary toxins cause oxidative stress, whereas phytogenic supplements like ICLP, rich in flavonoids, phenols, and antioxidants, help reduce it. In the study, 96 roosters were randomly assigned to different diets, including control groups and those with varying amounts of AFB₁ and ICLP. We measured reproductive hormones (estrogen, progesterone, FSH, and LH), gonadal features (testicle and epididymis weight, density, and volume), and organ weights. The study found that exposure to AFB₁ alone significantly affected hormone levels, gonadal morphology, and organ weights. The diet with a high ICLP content (0.5g/kg feed) notably improved these outcomes. Estrogen, progesterone, and FSH levels returned to those of the control group following ICLP supplementation. Increases in gonad weights and volumes indicated enhanced reproductive health. The ICLP diets also increased liver and gizzard weights, suggesting protection of these organs. The study demonstrates that ICLP is a phytogenic feed additive that reduces the reproductive and systemic toxicity of aflatoxins in poultry. Incorporating it into chicken diets may boost health, reproduction, and organ function. This practical and sustainable approach could improve poultry productivity and safety in areas affected by mycotoxins.