Evaluation of acute oral toxicity of a polyherbal respiratory tonic for poultry

Abstract

Poultry is commonly confronted with infectious diseases; among them respiratory tract pathogens are of major concern, causing heavy economic losses both in terms of decreased production and the increased costs of treatment. Infected birds express respiratory and other signs such as cough and dyspnea, complications due to secondary pathogens, and poor growth. Pulmofarm™ D Liquid is a complete herbal solution for respiratory distress in different respiratory diseases of viral and bacterial origin in poultry. A study was undertaken to evaluate the potential of Pulmofarm™ D liquid (M/s Ayurvet Limited, India) to elicit acute oral toxicity as per OECD 423 guidelines. Six (3 male and 3 female) Swiss albino mice were used for the study, where each animal served as its own control. Following the oral administration of the test substance, the animals were observed for the manifestation of toxic effects and mortality. No toxic effects or mortalities were observed till day 14 and Pulmofarm™ D liquid was found safe for oral use.