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Current IssueSpecial IssueEditorial BoardOnline First ArticlesArchive

Full Research Article

Effect of Different Levels of Turmeric Powder (Curcuma longa) on Productive Performance, Immune Response and Blood Antioxidant Profile of Broilers

M
M. Shawky1,*
H
H. Darrag2
Y
Y. Alyousef3
O
O.N. Aldakhillalla1
G
G.N. Rayan3
1Avian Research Center, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 402, Al-Ahsa 31982, KSA.
2Research and Training Station, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 402, Al-Ahsa 31982, KSA.
3Department of Animal and Fish Production, College of Agricultural and Food Sciences, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, KSA.

ABSTRACT

Background:  The present experiment aimed to determine how incorporating different levels of turmeric (Curcuma longa) into broiler chicken diets influences productive performance, immune response, blood antioxidant profiles and liver function.

Methods: A total of one hundred twenty one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were raised until 35 days of age. The chicks were randomly allocated into four treatment groups (30 birds per group), with each group further divided into three replicates of 10 birds. A standard basal diet was formulated and turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) was incorporated at levels of 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%. Individual body weight, body weight gain and feed intake were recorded to the nearest gram. Feed conversion ratio was also recorded weekly. Biochemical antioxidant markers (FRAP, FRSA, ABTS and total thiols) and liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT and ALP) were recorded. The ELISA test was utilized to assess the antibody titer of the humeral immune response against the newcastle virus vaccine, which was estimated from blood serum samples.

Result: The inclusion of turmeric in broiler diets affected feed intake and body weight performance. Lower feed intake was observed with turmeric supplementation during some weeks, while inclusion (0.5%) resulted in the highest final body weight compared to other turmeric treatments. Feed conversion ratio remained unaffected by turmeric supplementation throughout the experimental period. The groups receiving 0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5% dietary turmeric showed progressive enhancement in biochemical antioxidant markers (FRAP, FRSA, ABTS, total thiols) alongside notable declines in serum malondialdehyde and liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT, ALP), compared to unsupplemented controls. The most pronounced benefits were observed at 1.0-1.5% turmeric inclusion. Results demonstrate that dietary turmeric optimally enhances antioxidant defense and hepatic health, supporting its use as a natural growth promoter in poultry production systems.

INTRODUCTION

Due to limitations on the use of antibiotics in poultry diets, recent research has shown that turmeric can be a viable alternative to antibiotics in poultry production (Aderemi and Alabi, 2023). Hleap-Zapata et al. (2020) reported that curcumin and its related compounds represent the main active constituents of turmeric used as a feed additive. According to Demirhan (2020), the use of herbal supplements in broiler diets can enhance growth performance and strengthen the immune response. Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is a perennial herb with rhizomatous roots belonging to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). Originally native to tropical regions of South Asia, it is now extensively grown across tropical and subtropical areas worldwide (Shrishail et al., 2013). Arslan et al., (2017) found that adding turmeric at levels of 1% and 1.5% enhanced growth performance compared to the control group. In a related finding, Ahlawat et al., (2018) noted that supplementing broiler diets with 0.5% turmeric powder resulted in greater average body weight gain compared to non-supplemented birds. Moreover, Arslan et al., (2017) observed that dietary turmeric at 0.5% or 1.5% levels led to a reduction in feed intake compared with the control group.
       
The intensification of modern poultry production systems, while essential to meet the global demand for high-quality protein, has inadvertently increased the physiological stress burden and susceptibility to oxidative damage in broiler chickens. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), arising from both environmental and metabolic stressors, initiate lipid peroxidation, thereby compromising cellular integrity and reducing overall productive performance (Chen, 2022; Hu et al., 2023; Oke et al., 2024). An urgent focus in contemporary poultry science is, therefore, on mitigating oxidative stress through nutritional strategies, particularly by enhancing the antioxidant defense system (Surai et al., 2019; Shawky et al., 2025; Alyousef et al., 2025).
       
Traditionally, synthetic antioxidants have been employed in poultry diets to counteract oxidative insults; however, concerns over chemical residues in animal-derived foods and the growing consumer demand for natural alternatives have prompted significant research into plant-based additives (Surai et al., 2019). Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is distinguished by its abundance of curcuminoid compounds, with curcumin serving as the main bioactive ingredient. These molecules are widely documented for their strong antioxidant effects, as well as their roles in combating inflammation and supporting liver health (Kocaadam and Şanlier, 2017; Cheng et al., 2025). A substantial and growing body of evidence suggests that dietary turmeric supplementation enhances endogenous antioxidant capacity, reduces lipid peroxidation and improves metabolic and hepatic functions in livestock systems (Nawab et al., 2019; Khodadadi et al., 2021).
       
Despite these advances, gaps remain regarding the optimal inclusion rates of turmeric in broiler diets and its efficacy under intensive production conditions. In this research, incremental levels of turmeric were incorporated into broiler chicken diets to systematically investigate their influence on a wide spectrum of blood antioxidant and biochemical markers. The analyses encompassed ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), radical scavenging activities (FRSA and ABTS), total thiol content (TTL), activities of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP), as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, which serves as an indicator of lipid peroxidation. Through this multifaceted analytical approach, the research aims to elucidate the functional value of turmeric as a phytogenic feed additive for optimizing health status and performance in commercial broiler production.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was carried out at the Experimental Animal Research Station of King Faisal University from April to June 2025. A total of 120 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were reared for a period of 35 days. The chicks were randomly distributed into four experimental treatments (30 birds each) and each treatment was subdivided into three replicates containing 10 chicks per replicate. A standard basal diet was formulated according to Aviagen (2018) guidelines and turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) was incorporated at levels of 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%. To ensure uniformity, the turmeric powder was thoroughly blended into the feed during preparation. Birds were housed in floor pens of 16 ft2 each. Broiler chicks in all treatments were reared under similar hygienic and managerial conditions. They were housed in well ventilated brooding pens. Sawdust was used as a litter; feed and water were provided ad-libitum throughout the experimental period.
 
Growth performance measurements
 
At 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 days of age, each chick was individually weighed and its live body weight was recorded to the nearest gram. Body weight gain (g) was determined by subtracting the mean initial weight from the final weight at each growth stage. The leftover feed in the troughs was carefully collected and weighed to determine feed intake (g), which was calculated as the difference between the amount of feed offered and the remaining feed. The feed conversion ratio was calculated on a weekly basis.
 
Blood samples
 
Two and three weeks after administering the Lasota vaccine against ND, blood samples were collected from the wing vein of each bird using sterile vacutainer tubes. The samples were then left to clot for serum separation. The antibody titer level for ND was determined using serum samples.
 
ELISA test
 
Commercial Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kits (ID Screen® Newcastle Disease REF NDVS-CV-5P LOT J36, France) were used to measure the antibody titers against ND.
       
ELISA result is expressed by log 10 format, it typically refers to a logarithmic transformation of the measured values.
 
Assessment of biochemical and antioxidant indices
 
Serum antioxidant and enzyme activities were measured using a Shimadzu UV mini 1240 UV–VIS spectrophotometer in combination with standardized commercial kits sourced from Nanjing Jiancheng Bioengineering Institute, China. All analytical steps were carried out in accordance with the technical instructions provided and strict procedural checks were implemented to ensure consistent and reliable results throughout the experimental process (Liu et al., 2020).
 
Malondialdehyde (MDA) analysis
 
Lipid peroxidation in serum samples was quantified by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. The TBARS method, involving the reaction of serum with 2-thiobarbituric acid under acid-heating conditions, was employed to yield a colored adduct measurable at 532 nm. The concentration of MDA in each sample was established by measuring absorbance and referencing those values against a calibration curve generated using known standards of MDA (De Leon and Borges, 2020).
 
Evaluation of liver enzymes
 
The activities of liver-associated enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), were measured using specific commercial assay kits (AST: C0010-2; ALT: C009-2; ALP: A059-2). Enzyme reactions were quantified spectrophotometrically, with absorbance for AST and ALT measured at 510 nm and ALP assessed at 520 nm, utilizing a Bio-Rad 680 microplate reader to ensure accurate and reproducible results (Jain et al., 2023).
 
Hydroxyl radical scavenging assessment
 
Hydroxyl radical inhibition capacity was estimated by monitoring MDA absorbance at 550 nm, based on modified protocols of established antioxidant assays (Tirani and Haghjou, 2019).
 
Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)
 
Serum antioxidant potential was assessed using the FRAP assay, following principles described and recently optimized for biological matrices (Attia et al., 2017; Shohe et al., 2019).
 
ABTS cation decolorization assay
 
The ABTS radical cation assay followed the standard optimized protocol reported in Ilyasov et al., (2020) to measure total antioxidant activity, expressed as Trolox equivalents.
 
Assessment of DPPH scavenging capacity
 
The DPPH assay for radical scavenging capacity was performed according to procedures adapted from Shohe et al., (2019) and Gulcin and Alwasel (2023), using methanolic DPPH (0.1 mM) and measured at 520 nm after incubation to calculate percent inhibition relative to control.
 
Total thiol (TTL) determination and protein and albumin estimation
 
Total serum thiol groups and protein fractions were determined spectrophotometrically following standard poultry biochemistry protocols (Cecchini and Fazio, 2020; Pesti-Asbóth et al., 2023).
 
Statistical analysis
 
The data was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance with treatment as the main effect using SAS’s general linear model (GLM) technique from 2004. This model is as follows:
 
Yij = µ + Ti + eij 
 
Ti= The treatment effect.
eij= The experimental error.
µ= The general mean.
Yij= The measured characteristic.
       
When significant variations between means were found, Duncan’s multiple range tests were used to separate them.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Effect of different levels of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on productive performance of broilers are presented in Table (1). Concerning weekly feed intake, a significantly lower feed intake was observed across all turmeric treatments during weeks 1 and 4 compared to the control group. In weeks 2, 3 and 5, there were no significant differences among the groups. The control group showed the highest weekly body weight in weeks 1 and 2 compared to the turmeric treatments. Moreover, from week 3 to week 5, both the control and 0.5% turmeric groups significantly higher weekly body weights than the 1% and 1.5% turmeric groups. The 0.5% turmeric treatment recorded the highest final body weight (2112 g) of broiler chickens at 35 days of age, followed by the control group. While, the 1.5% turmeric treatment recorded the lowest final body weight (1997 g) at 35 days of age Table (1). During the first week, the control group showed the highest weekly body weight gain compared to the turmeric treatments. No significant differences in this trait were observed during the subsequent weeks until the end of the experiment. Regarding weekly feed conversion ratio, no significant differences were observed among any of the groups throughout the experimental period.

Table 1: Effect of different levels of turmeric (Curcuma longa) on productive performance of broilers.


       
Khan et al., (2025) found that adding 1.0% turmeric powder or cinnamon to broiler diets significantly enhanced growth performance, feed efficiency and nutrient digestibility.
       
Al-Muhammadawi and Jassim (2022) reported that including curcuma powder in broiler diets led to significant improvements (P<0.05) in productive traits, including body weight, weight gain and feed intake. They also suggested that a dietary inclusion level of 0.9% Curcuma powder is effective in enhancing these productive traits. Choudhury et al., (2018) reported that supplementing broiler feed with 0.75% turmeric powder resulted in increased body weight, improved FCR and higher gross profit per bird. Therefore, turmeric powder can be recommended as a natural feed additive at this inclusion level to enhance the overall performance of broilers.
       
Similar improvements in productive performance have also been reported following dietary supplementation with other natural feed additives such as bee propolis, although the magnitude of the response depends on the type and inclusion level of the additive (Al-Jebory and Ibrahim, 2021).
       
Effect of different levels of turmeric on newcastle disease antibody are shown in Table (2). All groups, including the control group, are within the protective limit against newcastle disease virus vaccination; however, there are no appreciable differences (P =0.381) between the control and all turmeric therapy groups. Due to variations in experimental circumstances, broiler health status, diet composition, environmental stressors and a range of immunological assays, some studies report inconsistent ELISA results for turmeric supplementation in broilers, even when the doses are equivalent.  Even with constant dosing, turmeric’s immunomodulatory effects can be influenced by heat stress, genetic background and feed interactions, leading to inconsistent ELISA results (Ammari et al., 2025). As a result of nutritional, genetic, environmental and methodological heterogeneity in addition to the dose given, ELISA results regarding the impact of turmeric on broiler immunity are inconsistent (Kannaki et al., 2019;  Khan et al., 2025). Turmeric protects and decreases stress and the detrimental consequences of inflammation, helps commercial broiler chickens grow more efficiently and helps limit the inflammatory effects of vaccination (Khodadadi et al., 2021).

Table 2: Effect of different levels of turmeric on newcastle disease antibody.


       
Previous studies have demonstrated that natural feed additives may influence biochemical and immunological traits as well as intestinal microbiota in broiler chickens (Ibrahim and Al-Jebory, 2020).
       
Dietary supplementation with turmeric (Curcuma longa) resulted in significant, dose-dependent improvements in serum antioxidant indices and liver function biomarkers in broiler chickens. Across all dietary turmeric levels, greater antioxidant capacity was observed, seen as significantly increased serum FRAP, FRSA, ABTS and total thiol (TTL) values compared to the control (Table 3). These findings are consistent with recent studies, which have demonstrated that turmeric and its active component curcumin upregulate key antioxidant enzymes and improve redox status in poultry (Nawab et al., 2019; Khodadadi et al., 2021; Oni et al., 2024). The control group displayed baseline antioxidant levels, while supplementation at 0.5%  turmeric (w/w) produced moderate but statistically significant improvements in all antioxidant markers. Further increases were observed at/ 1.0% and 1.5%  turmeric, with the maximal indices in the 1.5% group  (FRAP: 1042±19 µM, FRSA: 92.5±1.0%, ABTS: 2.12±0.06 µM, TTL: 165.9±3.3 µM; p<0.05). These findings are consistent with previous studies suggesting that the bioactive curcuminoids and essential oils present in turmeric may enhance endogenous antioxidant defenses and free radical scavenging capacity (He et al., 2025; Xu et al., 2024; Morsy et al., 2023; Nawab et al., 2023). However, because molecular analyses were not performed in the present study, these proposed mechanisms should be considered hypothetical and based on previous evidence rather than experimentally confirmed.

Table 3: Impact of graded turmeric inclusion on serum antioxidant and biochemical indices in broiler chickens.


       
In parallel, serum liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT and ALP) decreased progressively with increasing dietary turmeric supplementation. These biochemical changes suggest an improvement in hepatic status and are consistent with the potential hepatoprotective effects of turmeric reported in previous studies. However, because liver histopathology and hepatic oxidative stress biomarkers were not evaluated in the present study, these findings should be regarded as indirect biochemical evidence rather than definitive confirmation of hepatoprotection. Further investigations integrating serum biochemistry with histopathological examination and tissue oxidative stress analyses are required to verify these effects. Controls consistently showed the highest values, but these declined progressively with higher turmeric inclusion, reaching statistically significant minima (AST:  56.8±2.0 U/L, ALT: 49.1±1.6 U/L, ALP: 10.20±0.29 U/L in the 1.5% group). Similar trends have been observed in poultry and other livestock species, confirming curcumin’s role in restoring hepatic integrity and reducing inflammation under oxidative stress conditions (Abd El-Hack et al., 2021; Li et al., 2021; Tuong et al., 2023). Lipid peroxidation, as estimated by malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, declined significantly with rising turmeric inclusion from 1.63±0.06 mMol/dL in the control to 1.19±0.03 mMol/dL in the 1.5% turmeric group (p<0.05). Lower MDA values indicate reduced oxidative stress, a finding consistent with investigations showing that turmeric supplementation decreases lipid peroxidation and strengthens antioxidant potential in serum and muscle tissues (Aminuddin et al., 2023; Xu et al., 2024; Kanani et al., 2017). The dose related improvement in all antioxidant parameters and liver function tests confirms that turmeric acts as a multifaceted phytogenic additive that promotes antioxidant defense and preserves liver integrity. The enhanced total thiol content also indicates  improved redox balance through the restoration of  endogenous sulfur-containing protective mechanisms  (Oke et al., 2024; Abdel-Moneim et al., 2025). From an applied standpoint, this research underlines that dietary turmeric at 1.0-1.5% is optimal for boosting antioxidant  status and liver health/ in broilers without negative  effects (Abdel-Moneim et al., 2025).
       
Similar antioxidant responses have been reported following dietary supplementation with phytogenic feed additives under stress conditions (Salman et al., 2024).
       
These findings support turmeric and other phytogenic  compounds as promising alternatives to synthetic  antioxidants in poultry production systems (Wang et al., 2024; Aminullah et al., 2025).
       
Finally, the collective data provide compelling evidence that turmeric supplementation not only strengthens the antioxidant system but also supports hepatic and metabolic health. It is therefore recommended that future studies explore turmeric interactions with gut microbiota and molecular pathways governing oxidative stress and metabolism in broilers (Wu et al., 2024; Fouad et al., 2025).
       
Although the 1.0% and 1.5% turmeric treatments produced the most pronounced improvements in antioxidant biomarkers and liver function, these benefits were not accompanied by superior growth performance. In contrast, broilers receiving 0.5% turmeric achieved the highest final body weight, while the 1.5% group showed the lowest final body weight despite exhibiting the strongest antioxidant response. Therefore, the present findings suggest that the optimal dietary turmeric inclusion level depends on the production objective. A supplementation level of 0.5% appears more suitable for maximizing growth performance, whereas 1.0-1.5% is more appropriate when the primary objective is to enhance antioxidant status and hepatic health. This distinction highlights the importance of selecting turmeric inclusion levels according to the desired physiological or productive outcome.
 
Study limitations and future perspectives
 
The findings of the present study should be interpreted in light of several limitations. Intestinal morphology, nutrient digestibility and digestive enzyme activities were not evaluated; therefore, the mechanisms underlying the observed growth responses remain unclear. Likewise, although antioxidant status improved, no molecular analyses of antioxidant-related pathways were performed and the proposed mechanisms remain speculative. Immune function was assessed only by the Newcastle disease antibody response which was chosen based on the goals of the study and the resources at hand, future studies include a wider panel of immune biomarkers, such as immunoglobulins, cytokine profiles, lymphocyte populations and lymphoid organ development. liver health was evaluated using serum biochemical markers without histopathological confirmation. Therefore, future studies should integrate intestinal histomorphology, nutrient digestibility, molecular analyses, comprehensive immune biomarkers and liver histopathology to further elucidate the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of dietary turmeric supplementation in broiler chickens.

CONCLUSION

Dietary turmeric supplementation influenced broiler performance and physiological responses in a dose-dependent manner. Although 0.5% turmeric supplementation  resulted in the highest final body weight, higher inclusion levels (1.0-1.5%) produced the greatest improvements in antioxidant capacity, reduced lipid peroxidation and improved serum liver biochemical indicators, without affecting feed conversion ratio. Therefore, the optimal dietary turmeric level depends on the intended production objective: 0.5% appears more suitable for maximizing growth performance, whereas 1.0-1.5% may be preferable for enhancing antioxidant status. However, the observed improvements in liver biochemical indices should be considered indirect evidence of improved hepatic status, as histopathological and molecular assessments were beyond the scope of the present study. Future studies should integrate intestinal histomorphology, nutrient digestibility, molecular analyses of antioxidant pathways, comprehensive immune biomarkers and liver histopathology to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of dietary turmeric supplementation and to determine whether intermediate inclusion levels can simultaneously optimize growth performance and antioxidant capacity.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This work was supported by the Deanship of Scientific Research, Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia [Grant No. KFU254212].
 
Disclaimers
 
The views and conclusions expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of their affiliated institutions. The authors are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of the information provided, but do not accept any liability for any direct or indirect losses resulting from the use of this content.
 
Funding
 
This work was supported by the Deanship of Scientific Research, Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia [Grant No. KFU254212].
 
Informed consent
 
All animal procedures for experiments were approved by the Committee of Experimental Animal care and handling techniques were approved by the University of Animal Care Committee.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this article. No funding or sponsorship influenced the design of the study, data collection, analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

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    Full Research Article

    Effect of Different Levels of Turmeric Powder (Curcuma longa) on Productive Performance, Immune Response and Blood Antioxidant Profile of Broilers

    M
    M. Shawky1,*
    H
    H. Darrag2
    Y
    Y. Alyousef3
    O
    O.N. Aldakhillalla1
    G
    G.N. Rayan3
    1Avian Research Center, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 402, Al-Ahsa 31982, KSA.
    2Research and Training Station, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 402, Al-Ahsa 31982, KSA.
    3Department of Animal and Fish Production, College of Agricultural and Food Sciences, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, KSA.

    ABSTRACT

    Background:  The present experiment aimed to determine how incorporating different levels of turmeric (Curcuma longa) into broiler chicken diets influences productive performance, immune response, blood antioxidant profiles and liver function.

    Methods: A total of one hundred twenty one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were raised until 35 days of age. The chicks were randomly allocated into four treatment groups (30 birds per group), with each group further divided into three replicates of 10 birds. A standard basal diet was formulated and turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) was incorporated at levels of 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%. Individual body weight, body weight gain and feed intake were recorded to the nearest gram. Feed conversion ratio was also recorded weekly. Biochemical antioxidant markers (FRAP, FRSA, ABTS and total thiols) and liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT and ALP) were recorded. The ELISA test was utilized to assess the antibody titer of the humeral immune response against the newcastle virus vaccine, which was estimated from blood serum samples.

    Result: The inclusion of turmeric in broiler diets affected feed intake and body weight performance. Lower feed intake was observed with turmeric supplementation during some weeks, while inclusion (0.5%) resulted in the highest final body weight compared to other turmeric treatments. Feed conversion ratio remained unaffected by turmeric supplementation throughout the experimental period. The groups receiving 0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5% dietary turmeric showed progressive enhancement in biochemical antioxidant markers (FRAP, FRSA, ABTS, total thiols) alongside notable declines in serum malondialdehyde and liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT, ALP), compared to unsupplemented controls. The most pronounced benefits were observed at 1.0-1.5% turmeric inclusion. Results demonstrate that dietary turmeric optimally enhances antioxidant defense and hepatic health, supporting its use as a natural growth promoter in poultry production systems.

    INTRODUCTION

    Due to limitations on the use of antibiotics in poultry diets, recent research has shown that turmeric can be a viable alternative to antibiotics in poultry production (Aderemi and Alabi, 2023). Hleap-Zapata et al. (2020) reported that curcumin and its related compounds represent the main active constituents of turmeric used as a feed additive. According to Demirhan (2020), the use of herbal supplements in broiler diets can enhance growth performance and strengthen the immune response. Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is a perennial herb with rhizomatous roots belonging to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). Originally native to tropical regions of South Asia, it is now extensively grown across tropical and subtropical areas worldwide (Shrishail et al., 2013). Arslan et al., (2017) found that adding turmeric at levels of 1% and 1.5% enhanced growth performance compared to the control group. In a related finding, Ahlawat et al., (2018) noted that supplementing broiler diets with 0.5% turmeric powder resulted in greater average body weight gain compared to non-supplemented birds. Moreover, Arslan et al., (2017) observed that dietary turmeric at 0.5% or 1.5% levels led to a reduction in feed intake compared with the control group.
           
    The intensification of modern poultry production systems, while essential to meet the global demand for high-quality protein, has inadvertently increased the physiological stress burden and susceptibility to oxidative damage in broiler chickens. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), arising from both environmental and metabolic stressors, initiate lipid peroxidation, thereby compromising cellular integrity and reducing overall productive performance (Chen, 2022; Hu et al., 2023; Oke et al., 2024). An urgent focus in contemporary poultry science is, therefore, on mitigating oxidative stress through nutritional strategies, particularly by enhancing the antioxidant defense system (Surai et al., 2019; Shawky et al., 2025; Alyousef et al., 2025).
           
    Traditionally, synthetic antioxidants have been employed in poultry diets to counteract oxidative insults; however, concerns over chemical residues in animal-derived foods and the growing consumer demand for natural alternatives have prompted significant research into plant-based additives (Surai et al., 2019). Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is distinguished by its abundance of curcuminoid compounds, with curcumin serving as the main bioactive ingredient. These molecules are widely documented for their strong antioxidant effects, as well as their roles in combating inflammation and supporting liver health (Kocaadam and Şanlier, 2017; Cheng et al., 2025). A substantial and growing body of evidence suggests that dietary turmeric supplementation enhances endogenous antioxidant capacity, reduces lipid peroxidation and improves metabolic and hepatic functions in livestock systems (Nawab et al., 2019; Khodadadi et al., 2021).
           
    Despite these advances, gaps remain regarding the optimal inclusion rates of turmeric in broiler diets and its efficacy under intensive production conditions. In this research, incremental levels of turmeric were incorporated into broiler chicken diets to systematically investigate their influence on a wide spectrum of blood antioxidant and biochemical markers. The analyses encompassed ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), radical scavenging activities (FRSA and ABTS), total thiol content (TTL), activities of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP), as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, which serves as an indicator of lipid peroxidation. Through this multifaceted analytical approach, the research aims to elucidate the functional value of turmeric as a phytogenic feed additive for optimizing health status and performance in commercial broiler production.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS

    This study was carried out at the Experimental Animal Research Station of King Faisal University from April to June 2025. A total of 120 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were reared for a period of 35 days. The chicks were randomly distributed into four experimental treatments (30 birds each) and each treatment was subdivided into three replicates containing 10 chicks per replicate. A standard basal diet was formulated according to Aviagen (2018) guidelines and turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) was incorporated at levels of 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%. To ensure uniformity, the turmeric powder was thoroughly blended into the feed during preparation. Birds were housed in floor pens of 16 ft2 each. Broiler chicks in all treatments were reared under similar hygienic and managerial conditions. They were housed in well ventilated brooding pens. Sawdust was used as a litter; feed and water were provided ad-libitum throughout the experimental period.
     
    Growth performance measurements
     
    At 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 days of age, each chick was individually weighed and its live body weight was recorded to the nearest gram. Body weight gain (g) was determined by subtracting the mean initial weight from the final weight at each growth stage. The leftover feed in the troughs was carefully collected and weighed to determine feed intake (g), which was calculated as the difference between the amount of feed offered and the remaining feed. The feed conversion ratio was calculated on a weekly basis.
     
    Blood samples
     
    Two and three weeks after administering the Lasota vaccine against ND, blood samples were collected from the wing vein of each bird using sterile vacutainer tubes. The samples were then left to clot for serum separation. The antibody titer level for ND was determined using serum samples.
     
    ELISA test
     
    Commercial Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kits (ID Screen® Newcastle Disease REF NDVS-CV-5P LOT J36, France) were used to measure the antibody titers against ND.
           
    ELISA result is expressed by log 10 format, it typically refers to a logarithmic transformation of the measured values.
     
    Assessment of biochemical and antioxidant indices
     
    Serum antioxidant and enzyme activities were measured using a Shimadzu UV mini 1240 UV–VIS spectrophotometer in combination with standardized commercial kits sourced from Nanjing Jiancheng Bioengineering Institute, China. All analytical steps were carried out in accordance with the technical instructions provided and strict procedural checks were implemented to ensure consistent and reliable results throughout the experimental process (Liu et al., 2020).
     
    Malondialdehyde (MDA) analysis
     
    Lipid peroxidation in serum samples was quantified by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. The TBARS method, involving the reaction of serum with 2-thiobarbituric acid under acid-heating conditions, was employed to yield a colored adduct measurable at 532 nm. The concentration of MDA in each sample was established by measuring absorbance and referencing those values against a calibration curve generated using known standards of MDA (De Leon and Borges, 2020).
     
    Evaluation of liver enzymes
     
    The activities of liver-associated enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), were measured using specific commercial assay kits (AST: C0010-2; ALT: C009-2; ALP: A059-2). Enzyme reactions were quantified spectrophotometrically, with absorbance for AST and ALT measured at 510 nm and ALP assessed at 520 nm, utilizing a Bio-Rad 680 microplate reader to ensure accurate and reproducible results (Jain et al., 2023).
     
    Hydroxyl radical scavenging assessment
     
    Hydroxyl radical inhibition capacity was estimated by monitoring MDA absorbance at 550 nm, based on modified protocols of established antioxidant assays (Tirani and Haghjou, 2019).
     
    Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)
     
    Serum antioxidant potential was assessed using the FRAP assay, following principles described and recently optimized for biological matrices (Attia et al., 2017; Shohe et al., 2019).
     
    ABTS cation decolorization assay
     
    The ABTS radical cation assay followed the standard optimized protocol reported in Ilyasov et al., (2020) to measure total antioxidant activity, expressed as Trolox equivalents.
     
    Assessment of DPPH scavenging capacity
     
    The DPPH assay for radical scavenging capacity was performed according to procedures adapted from Shohe et al., (2019) and Gulcin and Alwasel (2023), using methanolic DPPH (0.1 mM) and measured at 520 nm after incubation to calculate percent inhibition relative to control.
     
    Total thiol (TTL) determination and protein and albumin estimation
     
    Total serum thiol groups and protein fractions were determined spectrophotometrically following standard poultry biochemistry protocols (Cecchini and Fazio, 2020; Pesti-Asbóth et al., 2023).
     
    Statistical analysis
     
    The data was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance with treatment as the main effect using SAS’s general linear model (GLM) technique from 2004. This model is as follows:
     
    Yij = µ + Ti + eij 
     
    Ti= The treatment effect.
    eij= The experimental error.
    µ= The general mean.
    Yij= The measured characteristic.
           
    When significant variations between means were found, Duncan’s multiple range tests were used to separate them.

    RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

    Effect of different levels of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on productive performance of broilers are presented in Table (1). Concerning weekly feed intake, a significantly lower feed intake was observed across all turmeric treatments during weeks 1 and 4 compared to the control group. In weeks 2, 3 and 5, there were no significant differences among the groups. The control group showed the highest weekly body weight in weeks 1 and 2 compared to the turmeric treatments. Moreover, from week 3 to week 5, both the control and 0.5% turmeric groups significantly higher weekly body weights than the 1% and 1.5% turmeric groups. The 0.5% turmeric treatment recorded the highest final body weight (2112 g) of broiler chickens at 35 days of age, followed by the control group. While, the 1.5% turmeric treatment recorded the lowest final body weight (1997 g) at 35 days of age Table (1). During the first week, the control group showed the highest weekly body weight gain compared to the turmeric treatments. No significant differences in this trait were observed during the subsequent weeks until the end of the experiment. Regarding weekly feed conversion ratio, no significant differences were observed among any of the groups throughout the experimental period.

    Table 1: Effect of different levels of turmeric (Curcuma longa) on productive performance of broilers.


           
    Khan et al., (2025) found that adding 1.0% turmeric powder or cinnamon to broiler diets significantly enhanced growth performance, feed efficiency and nutrient digestibility.
           
    Al-Muhammadawi and Jassim (2022) reported that including curcuma powder in broiler diets led to significant improvements (P<0.05) in productive traits, including body weight, weight gain and feed intake. They also suggested that a dietary inclusion level of 0.9% Curcuma powder is effective in enhancing these productive traits. Choudhury et al., (2018) reported that supplementing broiler feed with 0.75% turmeric powder resulted in increased body weight, improved FCR and higher gross profit per bird. Therefore, turmeric powder can be recommended as a natural feed additive at this inclusion level to enhance the overall performance of broilers.
           
    Similar improvements in productive performance have also been reported following dietary supplementation with other natural feed additives such as bee propolis, although the magnitude of the response depends on the type and inclusion level of the additive (Al-Jebory and Ibrahim, 2021).
           
    Effect of different levels of turmeric on newcastle disease antibody are shown in Table (2). All groups, including the control group, are within the protective limit against newcastle disease virus vaccination; however, there are no appreciable differences (P =0.381) between the control and all turmeric therapy groups. Due to variations in experimental circumstances, broiler health status, diet composition, environmental stressors and a range of immunological assays, some studies report inconsistent ELISA results for turmeric supplementation in broilers, even when the doses are equivalent.  Even with constant dosing, turmeric’s immunomodulatory effects can be influenced by heat stress, genetic background and feed interactions, leading to inconsistent ELISA results (Ammari et al., 2025). As a result of nutritional, genetic, environmental and methodological heterogeneity in addition to the dose given, ELISA results regarding the impact of turmeric on broiler immunity are inconsistent (Kannaki et al., 2019;  Khan et al., 2025). Turmeric protects and decreases stress and the detrimental consequences of inflammation, helps commercial broiler chickens grow more efficiently and helps limit the inflammatory effects of vaccination (Khodadadi et al., 2021).

    Table 2: Effect of different levels of turmeric on newcastle disease antibody.


           
    Previous studies have demonstrated that natural feed additives may influence biochemical and immunological traits as well as intestinal microbiota in broiler chickens (Ibrahim and Al-Jebory, 2020).
           
    Dietary supplementation with turmeric (Curcuma longa) resulted in significant, dose-dependent improvements in serum antioxidant indices and liver function biomarkers in broiler chickens. Across all dietary turmeric levels, greater antioxidant capacity was observed, seen as significantly increased serum FRAP, FRSA, ABTS and total thiol (TTL) values compared to the control (Table 3). These findings are consistent with recent studies, which have demonstrated that turmeric and its active component curcumin upregulate key antioxidant enzymes and improve redox status in poultry (Nawab et al., 2019; Khodadadi et al., 2021; Oni et al., 2024). The control group displayed baseline antioxidant levels, while supplementation at 0.5%  turmeric (w/w) produced moderate but statistically significant improvements in all antioxidant markers. Further increases were observed at/ 1.0% and 1.5%  turmeric, with the maximal indices in the 1.5% group  (FRAP: 1042±19 µM, FRSA: 92.5±1.0%, ABTS: 2.12±0.06 µM, TTL: 165.9±3.3 µM; p<0.05). These findings are consistent with previous studies suggesting that the bioactive curcuminoids and essential oils present in turmeric may enhance endogenous antioxidant defenses and free radical scavenging capacity (He et al., 2025; Xu et al., 2024; Morsy et al., 2023; Nawab et al., 2023). However, because molecular analyses were not performed in the present study, these proposed mechanisms should be considered hypothetical and based on previous evidence rather than experimentally confirmed.

    Table 3: Impact of graded turmeric inclusion on serum antioxidant and biochemical indices in broiler chickens.


           
    In parallel, serum liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT and ALP) decreased progressively with increasing dietary turmeric supplementation. These biochemical changes suggest an improvement in hepatic status and are consistent with the potential hepatoprotective effects of turmeric reported in previous studies. However, because liver histopathology and hepatic oxidative stress biomarkers were not evaluated in the present study, these findings should be regarded as indirect biochemical evidence rather than definitive confirmation of hepatoprotection. Further investigations integrating serum biochemistry with histopathological examination and tissue oxidative stress analyses are required to verify these effects. Controls consistently showed the highest values, but these declined progressively with higher turmeric inclusion, reaching statistically significant minima (AST:  56.8±2.0 U/L, ALT: 49.1±1.6 U/L, ALP: 10.20±0.29 U/L in the 1.5% group). Similar trends have been observed in poultry and other livestock species, confirming curcumin’s role in restoring hepatic integrity and reducing inflammation under oxidative stress conditions (Abd El-Hack et al., 2021; Li et al., 2021; Tuong et al., 2023). Lipid peroxidation, as estimated by malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, declined significantly with rising turmeric inclusion from 1.63±0.06 mMol/dL in the control to 1.19±0.03 mMol/dL in the 1.5% turmeric group (p<0.05). Lower MDA values indicate reduced oxidative stress, a finding consistent with investigations showing that turmeric supplementation decreases lipid peroxidation and strengthens antioxidant potential in serum and muscle tissues (Aminuddin et al., 2023; Xu et al., 2024; Kanani et al., 2017). The dose related improvement in all antioxidant parameters and liver function tests confirms that turmeric acts as a multifaceted phytogenic additive that promotes antioxidant defense and preserves liver integrity. The enhanced total thiol content also indicates  improved redox balance through the restoration of  endogenous sulfur-containing protective mechanisms  (Oke et al., 2024; Abdel-Moneim et al., 2025). From an applied standpoint, this research underlines that dietary turmeric at 1.0-1.5% is optimal for boosting antioxidant  status and liver health/ in broilers without negative  effects (Abdel-Moneim et al., 2025).
           
    Similar antioxidant responses have been reported following dietary supplementation with phytogenic feed additives under stress conditions (Salman et al., 2024).
           
    These findings support turmeric and other phytogenic  compounds as promising alternatives to synthetic  antioxidants in poultry production systems (Wang et al., 2024; Aminullah et al., 2025).
           
    Finally, the collective data provide compelling evidence that turmeric supplementation not only strengthens the antioxidant system but also supports hepatic and metabolic health. It is therefore recommended that future studies explore turmeric interactions with gut microbiota and molecular pathways governing oxidative stress and metabolism in broilers (Wu et al., 2024; Fouad et al., 2025).
           
    Although the 1.0% and 1.5% turmeric treatments produced the most pronounced improvements in antioxidant biomarkers and liver function, these benefits were not accompanied by superior growth performance. In contrast, broilers receiving 0.5% turmeric achieved the highest final body weight, while the 1.5% group showed the lowest final body weight despite exhibiting the strongest antioxidant response. Therefore, the present findings suggest that the optimal dietary turmeric inclusion level depends on the production objective. A supplementation level of 0.5% appears more suitable for maximizing growth performance, whereas 1.0-1.5% is more appropriate when the primary objective is to enhance antioxidant status and hepatic health. This distinction highlights the importance of selecting turmeric inclusion levels according to the desired physiological or productive outcome.
     
    Study limitations and future perspectives
     
    The findings of the present study should be interpreted in light of several limitations. Intestinal morphology, nutrient digestibility and digestive enzyme activities were not evaluated; therefore, the mechanisms underlying the observed growth responses remain unclear. Likewise, although antioxidant status improved, no molecular analyses of antioxidant-related pathways were performed and the proposed mechanisms remain speculative. Immune function was assessed only by the Newcastle disease antibody response which was chosen based on the goals of the study and the resources at hand, future studies include a wider panel of immune biomarkers, such as immunoglobulins, cytokine profiles, lymphocyte populations and lymphoid organ development. liver health was evaluated using serum biochemical markers without histopathological confirmation. Therefore, future studies should integrate intestinal histomorphology, nutrient digestibility, molecular analyses, comprehensive immune biomarkers and liver histopathology to further elucidate the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of dietary turmeric supplementation in broiler chickens.

    CONCLUSION

    Dietary turmeric supplementation influenced broiler performance and physiological responses in a dose-dependent manner. Although 0.5% turmeric supplementation  resulted in the highest final body weight, higher inclusion levels (1.0-1.5%) produced the greatest improvements in antioxidant capacity, reduced lipid peroxidation and improved serum liver biochemical indicators, without affecting feed conversion ratio. Therefore, the optimal dietary turmeric level depends on the intended production objective: 0.5% appears more suitable for maximizing growth performance, whereas 1.0-1.5% may be preferable for enhancing antioxidant status. However, the observed improvements in liver biochemical indices should be considered indirect evidence of improved hepatic status, as histopathological and molecular assessments were beyond the scope of the present study. Future studies should integrate intestinal histomorphology, nutrient digestibility, molecular analyses of antioxidant pathways, comprehensive immune biomarkers and liver histopathology to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of dietary turmeric supplementation and to determine whether intermediate inclusion levels can simultaneously optimize growth performance and antioxidant capacity.

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

    This work was supported by the Deanship of Scientific Research, Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia [Grant No. KFU254212].
     
    Disclaimers
     
    The views and conclusions expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of their affiliated institutions. The authors are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of the information provided, but do not accept any liability for any direct or indirect losses resulting from the use of this content.
     
    Funding
     
    This work was supported by the Deanship of Scientific Research, Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia [Grant No. KFU254212].
     
    Informed consent
     
    All animal procedures for experiments were approved by the Committee of Experimental Animal care and handling techniques were approved by the University of Animal Care Committee.

    CONFLICT OF INTEREST

    The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this article. No funding or sponsorship influenced the design of the study, data collection, analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

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