Coccidiosis management through phytobiotics, current status and future perspective

Coccidiosis remains one of the most economically devastating protozoan diseases affecting the global poultry industry, causing substantial losses through reduced growth performance, increased mortality, and high preventive and therapeutic costs. The disease is caused by host-specific intracellular parasites of the genus Eimeria, which invade and damage the intestinal epithelium, impairing nutrient absorption and immune function. Although synthetic anticoccidial drugs have been widely used for disease control, their long-term application has resulted in drug resistance, residue concerns, and adverse effects on poultry health and productivity. These limitations have intensified the search for safe, sustainable, and effective alternatives. Phytobiotics bioactive plant-derived compounds have emerged as promising alternatives for the management of coccidiosis due to their antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. This paper reviews the current status and future prospects of phytobiotics in coccidiosis control, with particular emphasis on commonly studied plants such as Allium sativum (garlic), Curcuma longa (turmeric), Origanum vulgare (oregano), and Cinnamomum zeylanicum (cinnamon). These phytochemicals act through multiple mechanisms, including disruption of parasite cell membranes, inhibition of oocyst sporulation, enhancement of gut integrity, modulation of gut-associated lymphoid tissue, and stimulation of both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. Advances in drug delivery systems such as nanocarriers, liposomes, and herbosomes further enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of phytochemicals, making them suitable for large-scale poultry production. In the context of rising antimicrobial resistance and increasing demand for residue-free animal products, phytobiotics represent a viable, eco-friendly strategy for sustainable coccidiosis management.