Choline, essential for acetylcholine synthesis and liver fat metabolism, plays a critical role in nutrient assimilation and energy metabolism, with deficiencies leading to growth issues and health complications. To overcome the drawbacks of synthetic choline

chloride, such as hygroscopicity and poor absorption, this investigation explored the potential of herbal choline supplements derived from select plants as an alternative. Two hundred (200) day old Ven Cobb broilers were divided randomly into 4 groups of 50 chicks each and each group consisting of 5 replicates with each replicate comprising of 10 chicks. The study involved diets divided into four groups: the control group (T0) on a basal diet, T1 with synthetic choline chloride (600 gm/tonne) and biotin (150 gm/tonne), T2 with Repchol (500 gm/tonne), and T3 with Brand A (1000 gm/tonne), a local brand. Results showed herbal supplements matched or surpassed synthetic choline chloride’s effects, particularly in group T2. Hemato-biochemical parameters indicated improved liver function and lipid metabolism in herbal groups, with lower SGOT, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Digestibility studies found no significant differences among treatments, suggesting herbal supplements could match synthetic choline chloride in nutrient absorption. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the potential of herbal choline supplements as a viable substitute for synthetic choline chloride in broiler diets. Their comparable or superior effects on growth, performance, hemato-biochemical parameters, redox balance, and nutrient digestibility contribute to exploring natural alternatives, promoting sustainability, and addressing the limitations of synthetic additives in poultry nutrition.

Highlights

• Studied the effect of synthetic and herbal choline supplements on broiler.
• Herbal choline supplements as a viable substitute for synthetic choline chloride in broiler diets.