The natural solution: Improving poultry performance with phytogenic extracts

Phytogenic products are a category of feed additives that are made from plant-based ingredients and are used to enhance animal health and productivity. They include essential oils, extracts, and some compounds derived from various plant species and herbs. These products have antimicrobial, antiprotozoal, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects on poultry and other animal species.

     

Phytoncides and Phytoalexins are specific compounds found in phytogenic products that originated from plants and are used to improve poultry health and overall performance. Phytoncides are substances produced by certain plants that have antimicrobial properties. They have similar effects to antibiotics, and are effective against bacteria, fungi and protozoa.

Phytoalexins are natural compounds that are produced by plants when they are under attack from pathogen such as bacteria and fungi. These compounds serve as a defense mechanism against infection, as they are capable of inhibiting the growth of pathogens. The inhibitory factor is a specific substance produced by the host cell. These unique phytogenic compounds (phytoncides & phytoalexins) vary in their chemical structure and mode of action, and their presence in diet may have potential benefits for poultry health.

For example, saponins are capable of disrupting the lipid bilayer of cell membranes, causing them to become permeable and leading to cell death of pathogens. Terpenes and capsaicin are effective in the stimulation of gastrointestinal system, inhibition of growth and development of pathogenic bacteria and protozoa.

     

Phytogenic products have potential benefits for poultry health and performance due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some advantages are discussed below-

1. Improve gut health: Phytoncides and phytoalexins may help to maintain the balance of gut microflora, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. They can reduce gut inflammation.

2. Improve nutrient absorption: Phytogenics can enhance intestinal villi growth which offers an increased surface area for better nutrient absorption.

3. Enhance immune function: Phytogenic extracts may stimulate the immune system which helps to reduce the risk of disease and improve overall health and performance.

4. Reduce stress: Phytogenic products are also known to have a calming effect on poultry, reducing stress and improving feed conversion rate (FCR). Some phytogenics contain antioxidants that can reduce oxidative stress, some others can regulate the stress hormone and reduce the negative effect of stress.

5. Improve feed efficiency: By reducing the presence of pathogens in the gut, phytogenic products may improve feed digestion, absorption, and utilization, which leads to better growth and overall performance of poultry.

6. Improve overall performance: Phytogenic extracts can enhance growth and weight gain in broilers. In layers, an increase in egg production, egg weight, egg colors, eggshell strength, and overall egg quality has been observed.

The ban on antibiotics in poultry feed has led to increased use of phytogenic products in many countries as an alternative way of promoting growth and performance. These natural plant extracts have no withdrawal period and are safe for consumption.

Phytogenic products derived from plants and herbs, are gaining popularity among the poultry producers as they offer natural, plant-based solutions that can help to maintain gut health, enhance immunity, increase performance, and reduce the risk of disease in poultry.