Oregano Oil
Oregano
belongs to the family of essential oils, which is extracted from the oregano plant
by steam distillation. As an antimicrobial phytogenic additive, it attracts
attention for its use as an alternative for synthesis compounds. When fed to
ruminants, it can improve nutrient utilization and enhance feed efficiency and
milk production. It also helps the animals’ defenses against
bacteria, fungi and parasites while eliminating the use of artificial
substances in animal feed formulations.
Cashew Nut Shell Oil
Natural
compounds extracted from cashew nut shell find many applications due to their
antimicrobial characteristics. It contains polyphenols that can be used to
prevent and treat coccidiosis as an ideal alternative for antibiotics in
poultry and swine. Moreover, when used for dairy cows. This essential oil can
control the inflammatory process, leading to high production during the
lactation period.
Spearmint Oil (Mentha Spicata)
The
trend toward reduction of the use of antibiotic growth promoters in animal feed
has urged the industry to look for viable alternatives. Due to high antimicrobial
properties, spearmint oil has been used widely in animal feed to boost the
immune system against diseases. Also, daily supplementation of spearmint to the
diets of broilers improves feed intake and body weight, consequently reducing
the mortality rate.