Application of Pontentilla Anserine, Polygonum aviculare and Rumex Crispus Mixture Extracts in A Rabbit Model with Experimentally Induced E. coli Infection

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The beneficial effect of herbs on production parameters, quality of products of animal origin, and animal health was demonstrated in numerous studies. This study aimed to determine an effect of herbal mixture on blood parameters and the anti-colibacteriosis efficacy. The rabbit model used during the experimental infection with E. coli indicates a clear effect of Rumex crispus L., Pontentilla anserine, Polygonum aviculare, whose activity involves the reduction of colonization of basically all sections of the intestines. The use of herbs in rabbits can control the activity of intestinal microbial community. Administration of a mixture of herbs to feed reduced the number of E. coli in cecum more than supplementation into water after experimental infection. The plant extracts may be a good alternative to antibiotic treatment. ABSTRACT: The study evaluated the anti-colibacteriosis efficacy of herbs in experimental infection by rabbit pathogenic strain of E. coli O103 eae(+). It also studied the effects of herbal mixture added to feed or water on blood parameters. This animal model was used since some E. coli strains pathogenic for rabbits are similar to the strains that are pathogenic to humans. The components of herbal extracts were Rumex crispus, Pontentilla anserine, and Polygonum aviculare. Supplementation was carried out in water (ExpW group) or feed (ExpF group), and four weeks later the animals were infected with the E. coli O103 eae(+) strain. The administration of herbs increased the mean concentration of total protein and serum albumin (p < 0.01) without causing disturbances of electrolyte and acid-base balance. The highest total antioxidant capacity (TAS) value (p < 0.01) was observed in the ExpF group. The administration of a mixture of herbs and feed caused more reduction in the number of E. coli in cecum than supplementation into water after an experimental infection. The herbs applied in rabbits did not harm the secretory functions of liver, electrolyte, and acid-base balance of the blood. The application of the tested herbal mixtures can control the activity of the intestinal microbial community.