Abstract

This study was aimed at evaluating the immune boosting potential of crude methanolic extract of Moringa oleifera in chickens experimentally challenged with Newcatle disease (ND) virus.One hundred and twenty forty two (42) day old chicks were randomly divided into four equal groups. Groups I and II were given daily oral treatment of methanolic extract of M. oleifera at 200 mg/kg body weight until day 56 of age. Groups II and III were vaccinated with the La Sota strain of ND vaccine. Group I was not vaccinated while group IV was left as untreated/unvaccinated control. All the groups were challenged with the velogenic strain of ND virus (VNDV) on day 56. Following challenge, the birds were assessed for cellular and humoral immune responses. Data on cellular and humoral immune responses were analysed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). Increases in total and differential cell numbers and haemagglutination inhibition (HI) titre in the extract-treated groups did not correlate with total protection against ND. M. oleifera extract increased ND HI titre and the total and differential leukocyte counts in the treated and unvaccinated group I birds much more than those of treated and vaccinated group II birds, hence it could be recommended as a prophylactic treatment against ND in non vaccinated birds.

Key words: Velogenic Newcastle disease, chickens, Moringa oleifera, immunity.