Phytogenic In Poultry Farming: Exploring Nature's Pharmacy as An Antibiotic Alternatives

Antibiotics are widely used in poultry farming for treatment, prevention of diseases, and growth promotion, leading to significant concerns regarding antibiotic resistance. This resistance, driven by genetic mutations in bacteria, threatens human and animal health, with predictions of 10 million deaths annually from resistant bacteria by 2050. Furthermore, reliance on antibiotics has contributed to faster chicken growth, often at the expense of animal welfare. In response to these challenges, phytogenic feed additives have emerged as natural, sustainable alternatives to antibiotics. These plant-derived compounds, including garlic, anise, turmeric, cinnamon, and others, exhibit antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and growth-promoting properties. This paper reviews 16 commonly used phytogenics, detailing their active ingredients and effects on poultry health and production. The study highlights the potential of phytogenics to improve feed conversion, boost immunity, and combat pathogenic infections while addressing consumer demands for antibiotic-free and environmentally sustainable poultry farming.