MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC PLANTS IN LIVESTOCK FARMING: A PROMISING APPROACH FOR BOOSTING HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE

Abstract

In recent times, there has been a revived interest in utilizing medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) for the treatment of diseases and enhancing the productivity of farm animals. Thanks to their bioactive compounds, MAPs can enhance the immune system, reduce the risk of disease and improve overall health and welfare. This is especially important in the post-antibiotic era, where the search for alternative options is becoming increasingly urgent. Although the mode of their action is still unclear, today it is known that MAPs can modulate the microbiota and promote gut health, leading to improved digestion and nutrient absorption. Some components of MAPs act against viruses, bacteria and parasites. Additionaly, the use of MAPs in livestock farming can also have environmental benefits. Livestock methane emissions are a significant contributor to greenhouse gas levels. Recent studies have shown that certain bioactive compounds found in MAPs could inhibit methanogenesis and reduce the number of methanogenic microbes in animal gastrointestinal tracts. As a result, researchers are exploring the potential of MAPs in methane reduction strategies. Plants could also play a prominent role in obtaining functional and enriched foods to contribute to animal product quality and human health in general. This review highlights the importance and potential of using medicinal plants in farm animal breeding, particularly in the context of the One Health concept, which acknowledges the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.