Effect of Andiroba (Carapa guianensis Aublet) oil on parasitism and blood and biochemical profiles of sheep

Abstract

The increasing resistance to synthetic anthelmintics and the growing demand for residue-free animal products have driven the use of natural additives with antiparasitic and immunomodulatory potential in sheep farming. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of supplementation with andiroba (Carapa guianensis Aublet) essential oil on parasitic load, hematological profile (complete blood count and leukogram), and biochemical parameters (glucose, urea, and total cholesterol) of crossbred lambs (Santa Inês × Dorper) raised under a semi-intensive system. Ten lambs aged 120±15 days were used, divided into two treatments: CON (no supplementation) and AND (oral supplementation with 3 mL/day of andiroba oil for 45 days). Parasitic load was assessed by counting eggs per gram of feces (EPG) and using the Famacha® scoring system. At the end of the experiment, a reduction in EPG counts was observed in the AND group (helminth eggs: 2.58 log10 vs. 3.16 log10; coccidian oocysts: 3.22 log10 vs. 3.69 log10), along with improved Famacha scores (1.70 vs. 2.60), indicating a lower degree of anemia. In terms of biochemical parameters, AND animals showed higher glucose concentrations (76.75 mg/dL vs. 68.10 mg/dL), suggesting better energy utilization from the diet, while urea levels were lower (41.95 mg/dL vs. 44.20 mg/dL), indicating improved protein balance and reduced nitrogen excretion. Hematological data revealed improvements in erythrocyte indices and immune response, suggesting immunoprotective and antiparasitic effects of the oil. The presence of limonoids and triterpenes in andiroba oil may have contributed to modulating the inflammatory response and enhancing resistance against gastrointestinal parasites. It was concluded that andiroba oil supplementation in the diet of young sheep shows potential as a natural additive for parasite control and health promotion, representing a promising alternative to conventional antiparasitics in sustainable production systems.