Exploring the benefits of Yucca Schidigera and Quillaja saponaria

SUMMARYYucca schidigera and Quillaja saponaria, native to the desert regions of South America (Mexico and Chile), are two key plant sources of saponins, compounds with potential to enhance poultry performance and offer medicinal benefits. Both Yucca and Quillaja (YQ) are also rich in polyphenols (resveratrol and yuccaols) which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as antispasmodic effects that help reduce arthritis-related pain. Furthermore, YQ demonstrates anti-protozoal and antimicrobial activities, which can help combat coccidiosis in poultry. Studies indicate that supplementing poultry (broiler chickens) feed with 100–300 mg/kg of YQ increased significantly body weight (control of 2570 vs about 2622 of treated group containing around 250 mg/kg of YQ), improved FE (1.42 vs 1.54), European Production Efficiency Factor (441 vs 478) and enhanced apparent total-tract digestibility of crude protein (51.52 vs 59.82). In layers, YQ supplementation has been shown to increase both egg number and weight. Additionally, these plants positively affect the microbial environment and morphological structure of the digestive tract, leading to improved nutrient absorption. Dietary inclusion of YQ has also been linked to enhanced meat and egg quality. Moreover, applying YQ – either in feed or on litter – has been associated with a reduction in odour and environmental pollution. These unique virtues make YQ valuable resources for ensuring the sustainable development of poultry production, making the industry more feasible in the long term.