Phytobiotics, a Natural Growth Promoter for Poultry

Abstract

Genetic advance aimed at accelerating the growth rate of slaughter birds have reduced the natural resistance of poultry to infections. It also increased susceptibility to stress, which resulted in deterioration of the welfare and productivity of poultry. Additionally, intensive poultry production poses a risk of exposure of chickens to unfavorable zoo-hygienic conditions and contamination with pathogens from the external environment (bedding, water, feed, hen house staff, sick birds in the flock). Due to the potential production losses, measures are taken to improve the health and effectiveness of bird rearing, for example by using growth stimulants and improving the composition of the gastrointestinal microbiome and improving metabolism and the work of the immune system. The addition of phytobiotics to feed or drinking water supports digestion and metabolism in the body, stimulates the growth and development of a useful microbiome, limits the multiplication and adhesion of pathogens, and improves the structure and functioning of enterocytes. The aim of this study is to present the health benefits resulting from the use of phytobiotics in poultry production, as well as to make people aware of the dangers of incompetent incorporation of herbs into feed mixtures or into drinking water. Due to the fact that not all species of animals react equally to a given plant, the selection of plant materials should be carefully considered and matched to the expected benefits. By using phytobiotics you can improve growth and performance of broiler chickens, through greatly improve digestion and nutrient assimilation. Plant additives can improve health through stimulate immunity and increase resistance to stress. Using of phitobiotics improve the quality of meat and eggs, increase the weight of valuable parts of carcass (pectoral and leg muscles) and stimulate laying. Unfortunately, due to the potentially toxic effect of an excess of certain herbs on the work of the liver, and the adverse changes in the palatability of eggs, use caution in the use some herbs e.g. of garlic, turmeric, rapeseed, alfa alfa, shiny privet or moringa.

Effects of <i>Desmodium uncinatum</i> Leaf Meal in the Diet on Lohmann Brown Hens’ Laying Performance and Eggs Quality

“…This was probably due to the low digestibility of the fiber component of leaves. The decrease in feed intake could be explained by the impaired palatability due to the existence of a higher amount of saponins when DULM was supplemented above 5% [18]. On the contrary, Lu et al [19] observed an increase in feed intake in layers when 5% Moringa leaf was used in the diet whereas Das et al [20] reported that the Indian runner hens' intake was not affected by DULM in their diet.…”

Male Layer Chicken’s Response to Dietary Moringa oleifera Meal in a Tropical Climate

“…In fact, Mahfuz and Piao [ 17 ] stated that higher breast muscle weight could be assigned to the increased protein deposition in birds fed diets supplemented with Moringa. Considered as one of the most important benefits of MOM to chicken feeding in our study, this improvement in breast weight could also be the result of the high content of phytobiotics from Moringa, since Krauze [ 57 ] indicated that phytobiotics may increase the weight of the pectoral muscle in chickens. Finally, this higher breast weight could be associated with the fiber diameter of this muscle, as Rehman et al [ 58 ] stated that Moringa increased breast muscle fiber diameter.…”

Avian Cell Culture Models to Study Immunomodulatory Properties of Bioactive Products

“…These products have been used as natural growth promoters in pigs and poultry [ 19 , 20 , 22 , 25 ]. Plant extracts (oregano, laurel, sage, anise, and citrus essential oils) have a positive effect on slaughter performance and the health of broiler chickens [ 26 , 27 ]. Some herbs and spices, including turmeric, cumin, black, and red peppers, nutmeg, mint, ginger, as well as chamomile or anise, also have immunostimulating properties [ 19 ].…”