Acta Vet. Brno 2008, 77: 581-588
Experimental Application of Sage in Rabbit Husbandry
Salvia spp. belongs to the Labiatae family and is characterized by antimicrobial and antiinflammatory effect. The aim of this study was to test its in vitro and in vivo inhibitory effect against bacteria as well as to find an alternative possibility to use sage in the rabbit ecosystem examining biochemical, zootechnical and inmunological indicators, compared to the commercial feed mixture Xtract. Using the sage extract in in vitro tests, its inhibitory effect was noted. Under in vivo conditions, in the experimental group with sage (EG1), reduction of Pseudomonas-like sp. (p < 0.01) and E. coli (p < 0.01) was noted after 7 days of sage application compared to the control group CG2 (with Robenidin) as well as after 21 days of sage extract application, when the reduction of coagulase-negative staphylococci (p < 0.01) was detected (in comparison with the experimental group-EG2, Xtract group). In the caecum of rabbits from EG1, higher values of lactic, acetic and butyric acids were noted. The values of propionic acid were not influenced. Biochemical indicators were not influenced; however, the values of GSH Px were lower in EG1 compared to EG2. Higher phagocytic activity (18%) was noted in EG1 than in EG2 (13%) after 21 days of additives application. The reduction of Eimeria sp. oocysts was demonstrated in EG1 (sage group) after 7 days of sage application comparing to CG2 (217 OPG to 566 OPG). The animals in both experimental groups achieved higher feed consumption and weight gain, lower mortality compared to both controls. Neither of the additives had a negative influence on the health status and growth performance of rabbits.
Keywords
Salvia officinalis, Oryctolagus cuniculus, in vitro, in vivo, effect, activity.
