Mix of natural extracts to improve the oxidative state and liver activity in bulls finished feedlot

• Effects of natural blend on oxidative state and liver health in bulls; • 32 bulls were divided in treatments: CONT, MIX2, MIX4, MIX6, g/anim/d natural mix; • Inclusion of blend improve oxidative status of bulls that have been finished in feedlot; • Natural blend was providing a better health on liver and improve bulls’ conditions. • Animals supplied with MIX2 and MIX4 g/animal/day, presented better results. This study was realized to evaluate the effects of Baccharis dracunculifolia and Tamarindus indica L extracts, cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) and clove oil blends on oxidative state of bulls finished in feedlot and fed with high-grain diets. A total of 32 young bulls were divided into four treatments: CONT, without natural extract; MIX2, inclusion of 2 g/anim./d of natural mix; MIX4, inclusion of 4 g/anim./d of natural mix; MIX6, inclusion of 6 g/anim./d of natural mix. The blood samples were collected of the all animals. The levels of protein carbonyl groups were 30% lower (P < 0.05) in plasma of bulls supplemented with of MIX4 and MIX6 as compared to CONT group. Ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), an antioxidant marker, was 20% higher (P < 0.05) in the plasma of MIX6-fed animals when compared to CONT group. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels were 38% lower (P < 0.05) in the liver of bulls supplemented with MIX6 diet. The results show that the inclusion of the mixture of Baccharis, tamarind, CNSL and clove oil improves the oxidative status of bulls finished feedlot, particularly in animals supplied with 6 g/anim./d.