From Aroma to Agriculture: Essential Oils as Game Changers in Poultry Industry Part I

This review examines using essential oils (EOs) as an alternative approach in poultry farming to clarify their beneficial roles. The discussion introduces current challenges within the poultry industry, from antibiotic resistance and environmental concerns, setting the context for natural feeding strategies. EOs are characterized by diverse bioactive compounds such as terpenes and phenolics, known as powerful alternatives due to their strong antimicrobial, antioxidant, and growth-stimulating properties. Their chemical composition and biological activities can offer insights into their mechanism of action in bird species, specifically poultry. In the context of poultry production, the review underlines how EOs enhance growth performance, support immune responses, and improve feed efficiency. Their role in modulating gut health and potentially improving product quality was discussed herein. Combining these natural substances into poultry farming can address the growing environmental concerns. In this overview, we focus on EOs as a novel and progressive option in poultry farming, aiming to harmonize 'environmental sustainability with agricultural efficiency.