Influence of flaxseed combined with thyme, rosemary, and sage leaves asfodder additives on antioxidant status in the liver of Japanese quail

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of a combination of plant supplements with antioxidant properties on the total antioxidant status measured by FRAP and the activity of selected antioxidant enzymes in the livers of Japanese quails. The birds were given feed with the 4% addition of flaxseed combined with a 1% admixture of dried thyme, rosemary, or sage leaves, respectively. The results showed an increased value of the antioxidant potential in the livers of quails fed with a diet that contained the combination of flaxseed and thyme, compared to the control diet and the diet that included flaxseed and rosemary. In all groups given dietary herbal supplements, males and females did not differ in liver antioxidant capacity, whereas in the control group decreased values of these indices for males were found. In the groups fed with the addition of flaxseed and herbs, the activity of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase was significantly lower than in the control group. There were no differences in the activity of catalase and glutathione S-transferase between the analyzed groups. The use of flaxseed with the addition of thyme, rosemary, and sage leaves had a significant effect on liver antioxidant status in the studied quails.