Effects of Silymarin on blood parameters of broilers in an experimental chronic mycotoxicosis

Silymarin, the principal constituent of Silybum marianum, is one of the most commonly used herbal therapies as a natural antioxidant, hepatoprotector and antihepatotoxic agent, in counteracting the toxic effects of mycotoxins. To determine the efficacy of Silymarin, the levels of hematological and serum biochemical parameters of 70 Ross broilers from 35 to 49 days of age in an experimental chronic mycotoxicosis and in the treatment with Silymarin were evaluated, in seven dietary treatment groups (Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, mixed, treatments with Silymarin and control). After culture for heavy sporulation, harvested spores were suspended in sterile normal saline and poured on fresh mash feed, incubated and incorporated as 10% of total feed. Hematological and biochemical values including Albumin, total protein, glucose, creatinine, uric acid, ALT, ALP, AST, Hb, PCV, RBC, total and differential WBC counts were recorded every 7 days. The analysis of results shows that Silymarin significantly helps to keep the levels of hematological and serum biochemical parameters in normal range. These findings show that Silymarin can be used effectively to reduce the toxic and suppressive effects of mycotoxicosis