Application of herbs and phytogenic feed additives in poultry production

During the last decade, herbs and phytogenic compounds have attracted a lot of attention for their potential role as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in monogastric animals. AGPs have been an integral part of the poultry feed industry for more than fifty years. However, AGPs alternatives have been searched since antibiotics prolonged use has precipitated the development of resistant strains within groups of primary pathogenic or opportunistic bacteria and the breakdown of the symbiosis between animals and desirable flora. Many non-therapeutic substitutes (prebiotics, probiotics and symbiotics), especially plants extracts from a wide variety of herbs, spices and derivatives, have already been used since the antiquity. They were appreciated for their specific aroma and various medicinal properties. Recent studies on these compounds have shown some positive effects (antimicrobial, antioxidant and regulator of the gut flora) in poultry production. This indicates that plant extracts can be considered as growth promoters; however evaluation procedures of their therapeutic/beneficial effects, their toxicity and interactions with prescription drugs have to be improved.