Neem leaf meal supplementation for profitable poultry production: A review

Various parts of Neem (Azadirachta indica) which is native to the Indian subcontinent have been widely used in traditional Indian medicine especially in human beings since ancient times. A number of literature reports suggested that the Neem leaves may be fed as a supplement to significantly improve growth, feed efficiency and overall performance in poultry. Neem leaves have been found to have immuno-modulatory and anti-diabetic properties. Feeding of Neem leaves can facilitate production of lean and high protein meat that can be used to combat common metabolic and cardiovascular disorders in human beings. Research on Neem leaves as supplement should therefore be given adequate attention to find ways to utilize this abundant resource and deal with antibiotic abuse in present scenario. However, Neem leaves contain some bioactive agents, namely, azadirachtin and nimbidin, which are anti-nutritional in nature. This notwithstanding, some studies have reported no adverse effect of feeding Neem leaves to livestock. It may be suggested that supplementation of Neem leaves may be used as a feed supplement for obtaining higher profitability in poultry enterprises.