The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2026; 15(1):46-55 ;   DOI:10.31254/phyto.2026.15106

Research Article

Exploration of suitable ratio of inclusive ingredients in Triphala for improved performance in layer cockerels

Ahash T¹ , Jagadeeswaran A² , Sakthi Priya M³ , Sukumar K⁴

Ahash T,Jagadeeswaran A,Sakthi Priya M,Sukumar K

1. PG Scholar, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637002, Tamil Nadu, India
2. Professor and Head, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637002, Tamil Nadu, India
3. Assitant professor, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637002, Tamil Nadu, India
4. Professor and Head, Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal-637002, Tamil Nadu, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 15th October, 2025 / Accepted: 28th February, 2026 / Published : 30th March, 2026

Abstract

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Background: In poultry, effective immunostimulation not only strengthens defenses against pathogens but also ensures timely resolution of inflammation, allowing nutrients to be redirected to growth and productivity. It helps to counteract immunosuppression caused by stress factors and environmental challenges, thereby maintaining bird health and productivity. Proper immunostimulation can also improve resistance to pathogens, ultimately leading to better overall flock performance.  Objective: The present study aimed to find out the suitable ration of inclusive ingredients of Triphala powder, viz., Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellerica and Emblica officinalis (in order) by assessing their influences on growth, immune responses and antioxidant status in layer cockerels. Materials and Methods: A total of 140 BV-300 cockerels were divided into seven groups: control group (fed with basal diet alone) and six treatment groups receiving Triphala powder with three different ratios of ingredients [1:1:1, 1:2:3 and 1:2:4 (in order of ingredients)] at two different (0.5% and 1% of basal diet) inclusion levels. Growth performance was assessed by calculating weekly body weight gains. Humoral immune responses were evaluated by haemagglutination inhibition (HI) titre against Newcastle disease antigen and haemagglutination (HA) titre against Sheep Red Blood Cells (SRBC). Cell mediated immune response was assessed by dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) - induced cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity test. Antioxidant status was judged by estimating antioxidant enzyme activities viz., superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, in the liver tissue. Results: Results revealed that supplementation with Triphala powder enhanced growth at all the three different ratios at both the levels of inclusion (0.5% and 1%), with significant effect noticed at 0.5% inclusion level of 1:2:3 ratio. This level also significantly enhanced both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. Antioxidant enzyme activities were also markedly elevated in groups receiving Triphala powder, with significant effects observed in 1:2:4 ratio (1%) group. No morbidity or mortality were observed during the study period, indicated the inclusion levels or the ratio of ingredients were not obnoxious to the cockerels and proved the safety of the Triphala preparation in the cockerels. Conclusion: Triphala supplementation improved growth performance and immune responses at 0.5% inclusion level in 1:2:3 ratio, while 1% inclusion level in 1:2:4 ratio exhibited superior antioxidant potential, suggesting greater benefits under stress conditions such as heat stress or disease challenges.    

Keywords

Poultry, Triphala, Three ratios, Growth performance, Immune status, Antioxidant profile

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