The Useful Applications of Origanum Vulgare in Poultry Nutrition

Origanum Vulgare (OV) is a member of the family Lamiaceae which grows naturally in the Mediterranean area. It is a less toxic, residue-free and standard natural feed additive for poultry. There were many promoting characteristics of oregano dependent on its bioactive constituents as carvacrol and thymol. It possesses many properties, including antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antiparasitic and immunomodulatory. The possible benefits of utilizing OV in the poultry sector include enhancement of the growth, feed utilization, feed efficiency and improvement of the absorption and digestion and consequently a better productive performance. On the other hand, OV can reduce the disease occurrence and economic losses. The inclusion of oregano essential oil [OEO] in broiler diets at levels of 0.6-1% enhanced the growth performance and reduced the mortality in the broiler herds. Remarkable enhancement on the intestinal microbiota, fewer fermentation products andenhanced intestinal mucus synthesis and intestinal cell functionality have been observed by 15 mg/kg of OEO, reflecting a whole better intestinal equilibrium in poultry. Dietary supplementation of OEO at 300-ppm displayed higher IgG titers and enhanced the immune responses in the broiler. Bioactive ingredients isolated from OV could be employed in poultry feeding. To acheive the best productivity of poultry, oregano feed supplements should be used as an alternative to antibiotics and drugs due to the absence of side effects and residual impacts. The present chapter provides evidence on the usage of OV and its products in poultry feeding besides their application as feed additives in the poultry industry.

Keywords: Antioxidant, Health, Immunity, Origanum vulgare, Performance, Poultry.