Addition of yucca extract and glutamine in the diet of chicks had a protective effect against coccidiosis

Effects of Dietary Inclusion of a Proprietary Combination of Quillaja saponaria and Yucca schidigera on Intestinal Permeability and Immune Response in Broiler Chickens during a Coccidia Challenge

“…The inclusion of Quillaja saponaria at 250 and 300 ppm reduced oocyst production (43% and 37%, respectively) and lesion scores following Eimeria acervulina and Eimeria tenella infection [ 14 ]. Yucca-based saponins also display coccidiostat actions, as measured by reduced oocyte production and protection against intestinal damage induced by the Eimeria in broilers [ 11 ]. Previous studies have demonstrated that saponins exhibit anti-protozoal properties through their interaction with cholesterol in protozoal cell membranes, leading to membrane damage and eventual cell lysis [ 27 ], and this effect has been observed in studies with both quillaja- and yucca-based saponin sources [ 10 , 14 ].…”

“…These strategies are crucial in helping maintain poultry health and productivity. The phytogenic compounds, saponins, and polyphenols from Quillaja saponaria and Yucca schidigera have been shown to impact growth performance in broilers due to coccidiostat action and improvements in nutrient digestibility and intestinal permeability in both unchallenged and Eimeria challenge situations [ 2 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 ]. In addition, saponins have immunomodulatory effects [ 2 , 13 ].…”

“…Previous studies both with and without yucca involving an Eimeria challenge have focused on the peak phase of Eimeria infection due to the high presence of oocysts and intestinal damage occurring during this period, which eventually leads to increased intestinal permeability [ 10 , 11 , 14 , 16 , 17 , 18 ]. However, little is known about the recovery phase (5 to 12 dpi) following an Eimeria challenge, when immune response and tissue repair are key.…”