The role of phytogenic feed additives in stress mitigation in broiler chickens

Abstract

The increase in global temperature and consumers' welfare has increased the use of phytogenic feed additives (PFA) to mitigate the negative effects of heat stress on chickens in recent years. Various bioactive compounds capable of improving the thermotolerance of broiler chickens during exposure to thermal challenges have been identified in different plant species and parts. This review is an overview of the roles of bioactive compounds of different PFA, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, antioxidants, growth‐promoting and immune‐modulating agents, in heat stress management in broiler chickens. Common PFA in use, particularly in tropical environments, are also discussed. An understanding of the roles of the PFA in chickens' thermotolerance could further stimulate interest in their use, thereby improving the birds' productivity and addressing consumers' concerns. This review collates the existing data on the roles of herbs in mitigating heat stress on chickens and highlights future research perspectives.

Feeding Eucommia ulmoides extract enhances protection against high-temperature stress in chicks

“…Given the observed decrease in immunoglobulins under heat stress conditions, it is postulated that elevating immunoglobulin levels could enhance immune function and elicit a protective response to heat stress. It is plausible that the observed enhancement in immune ability is attributed to the presence of flavonoids and phenylpropanoid substances in the Eucommia extract, which are known to possess immunomodulatory properties ( Oni et al, 2024 ; Zhang et al, 2024b ).…”

Black soldier fly larvae oil (Hermetia illucens L.) calcium salt enhances intestinal morphology and barrier function in laying hens

“…Moreover, villous growth will be disrupted due to heat stress and pathogenic infection which are characterized by impairment of intestinal epithelium integrity, decreasing villus height ( VH ) and VH-to-crypt depth ( CD ) ratio ( VH:CD ) ( Li et al, 2018 ; Mazzoni et al, 2022 ). A potential approach to reduce the adverse impacts of infections caused by pathogens and heat stress induced oxidative stress involves the use natural of feed additives with antibacterial activity ( Oni et al, 2024 ).…”

Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Essential Oils, Lysozyme, and Vitamins’ Blend on Layer Hen Performance, Viral Vaccinal Response, and Egg Quality Characteristics

“…Extensive research indicates that these terpenes exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, potentially enhancing gut health in chickens and contributing to the overall well-being and performance of chickens [ 15 , 16 ]. Likewise, linalool, another monoterpene which can be found in lavender and coriander essential oils, has been explored for its potential to modulate stress responses and enhance the immune system in chickens [ 17 ]. Lastly, carvacrol and thymol are potent bioactive compounds, renowned for their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties [ 18 ].…”