Vet World. 2025 Aug;18(8):2367-2376. doi: 10.14202/vetworld.2025.2367-2376. Epub 2025 Aug 21.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND AIM: Laser acupuncture has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological approach to enhance productivity in livestock. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of laser acupuncture applied to specific back-shu points (Bladder [BL]13, BL15, and BL21) on growth performance, feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency (FE), and growth hormone (GH) levels in rabbits.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 24 male Hycole rabbits were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 8): Group A (placebo control), Group B (laser acupuncture on BL13, BL15, and BL21), and Group C (laser acupuncture on non-specific points). Treatments were conducted weekly over a 6-week period using a 0.2-joule semiconductor laser device. Body weight, feed intake, FCR, FE, and GH concentrations were recorded. GH levels were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were statistically evaluated using a one-way analysis of variance followed by Duncan’s post hoc test.
RESULTS: Group B showed significantly higher final body weight (1.97 ± 0.07 kg), weight gain (919 ± 128 g), GH levels (1.75 ± 0.12 ng/mL), improved FCR (2.67 ± 0.07), and greater FE (37.45% ± 1.09%) compared to Groups A and C (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between Groups A and C, indicating the importance of targeting precise acupuncture points for therapeutic effectiveness.
CONCLUSION: Laser acupuncture at BL13, BL15, and BL21 significantly enhances metabolic efficiency, growth performance, and hormonal regulation in rabbits. The precision of point application is critical for achieving optimal physiological benefits. This technique provides a sustainable and non-invasive approach to enhancing feed utilization and productivity in rabbit farming and holds promise for broader application in modern animal husbandry.
PMID:41064818 | PMC:PMC12501583 | DOI:10.14202/vetworld.2025.2367-2376
