Ukrainian Journal of Veterinary Sciences

Effects of garlic (Allium sativum) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) supplementation on reproductive performance, embryogenesis, physiological parameters and oxidative stress in Japanese quails

Goodness Nkankeya, Ibrahim Musa-Azara, Kingsley Omogiade Idahor
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Abstract

The aim of this research was to scrutinise the influence of garlic (Allium sativum) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) supplementation on embryogenesis, physiological parameters and oxidative stress of Japanese quails. Four dietary treatments were used consisting of a control diet and diets enriched with garlic, ginger, and their combination. A total number of 180 laying birds were randomly allocated to the four treatments consisting of 3 replicates with 15 birds per replicate. Four hundred and eighty eggs were collected for embryogenesis study after the birds had been on the experimental diets for four weeks. Data were analysed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) in SPSS. Fertility percentage and reproductive capacity significantly increased in the treated groups while a combination of ginger and garlic resulted in higher percentage of hatchability of fertile eggs. All treatments culminated in a significant increase in crown-rump length (P < 0.05) while embryonic weights were similar for all treatments. Significant improvement was recorded in total antioxidant capacity of birds administered ginger, garlic, and a concomitant use of ginger and garlic although oxidative stress index values were statistically indistinguishable across all treatments (P > 0.05). Serum level of IgG was improved following treatment with garlic (P < 0.05). Whereas the serum level of IgE was significantly elevated as a result of ginger administration while a combination of ginger and garlic resulted in elevated levels of IgM (P < 0.05). Total cholesterol decreased significantly due to the combination of ginger and garlic. Combination of ginger and garlic also resulted in improved haematological parameters. Garlic administration elicited a significant increase (P < 0.05) in total protein while other parameters were similar. So, ginger and garlic positively influenced fertility, embryonic growth-related traits, immunity and antioxidant defence in Japanese quails, supporting their use as safe natural feed additives

Keywords

phytogenic additive; hatchability; humoral immunity; antioxidant capacity; lipid metabolism; haematology; serum biochemistry

Suggested citation
Nkankeya, G., Musa-Azara, I. , & Idahor, K.O. (2026). Effects of garlic (Allium sativum) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) supplementation on reproductive performance, embryogenesis, physiological parameters and oxidative stress in Japanese quails. Ukrainian Journal of Veterinary Sciences, 17(2), 43-56. https://doi.org/ 10.31548/veterinary2.2026.43
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