Evaluating the Effects of Thymus vulgaris Extract on Growth Performance Parameters in Broiler Chicken

The Effects of Thymus vulgaris extract on growth performance parameters of broiler chicken are investigated in this study. Three hundred day-old male chicks, Ross 308, were randomly distributed into two groups named group A, a treatment group, and group B which is a control group with 3 replicates (50 birds per pen). Then, Chicks were raised for 7 weeks. Each of the two groups was supplied with diets and water. Twenty percent extract of Thymus vulgaris was administrated to chickens’ drinking water 12 hours a day with dose of 200cc/1000 liter. This was continued from day 10 till chicks were sent to slaughter house. Chickens of two groups weighted weekly and food consumption and Feed Conversion Ratio were calculated. At the end of experiment total mortalities, total consumed food and feed conversion ratio in treatment group (A) were significantly (p<0.05) lower than control group (B) while mean body weight in chickens of group A was significantly (p<0.05) higher than control (B) group. Comparing food consumption and feed conversion ratio in two groups showed significant differences (p<0.05); although, the above mentioned factors in treatment group was lower than control group. Results ofthis study showed the value of Thymus vulgaris in improving growth performance parameters and reducing mortalities.