Have you observed signs like runny watery eyes, swollen sinuses, nasal discharge, and wheezing, sneezing, gurgling/rattling, gasping and sudden mortality amongst poultry in your farm? Beware!!! These are the symptoms of respiratory diseases in birds

Accumulation of gases like ammonia, dust, which harbors lots of infectious agents like bacteria, viruses and fungi, unfavorable environmental conditions, unfavorable conditions in transit like thermal changes, motion changes, withdrawal of water, noise and internal vehicle thermal microenvironment led to respiratory distress in birds.

Chronic Respiratory Disease (CRD) is of high economic importance as this causes heavy production loss & mortality. Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) & Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) is involved in polymicrobial “chronic respiratory disease” of chicken. Various antibiotics are used for management but pose the threat of antibiotic resistance & human food safety risks. Hence, the need of the hour is to find suitable alternatives for alleviation of sub-clinical infections and prevention of local pulmonary colonization of respiratory pathogens.

5 phytochemicals to relieve respiratory discomfort in Poultry

1. Thymus vulgaris (Thyme)

Thyme is good for mucus membranes and is great for keeping the respiratory tract healthy or aiding in recovery from a respiratory illness. Thyme oil, thanks to the phytomolecules thymol and carvacrol, supports the treatment of respiratory disorders. These substances smooth tightened muscles and stimulate the respiratory system. An additional advantage lies in their expectorant and spasmolytic properties. Thyme is a natural antiparasitic, antibacterial thus relieving infection.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra (Mulethi)

Mulethi contains active compounds like glycyrrhizin, glycyrrhetinic acid, flavonoids and isoflavonoids. Due to its emollient and demulcent properties has a soothing effect on the respiratory tract. So, it helps to relieve throat irritation and rattling. Due to its expectorant property, it promotes drainage of thick mucus from the lungs, bronchi and trachea by thinning the mucus, and also lubricates the irritated respiratory tract. Its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties, help to fight respiratory infections. It also helps to boost our immunity against these infections due to its immuno-modulatory property.

3. Ocimum sanctum (Basil)

Tulsi has been shown to boost the immune response against infective threats in non-stressed and stressed animals and birds. Helps in clearing mucous from the lungs and upper respiratory tract.  Its pungency clears the dampness and toxins that can cause tract infections and fever. Basil increases lung capacity and reduces labored breathing. It is commonly used in asthma, bronchitis, rhinitis and other respiratory conditions. Also, being a powerful adaptogen, a herb that helps the body adapt to stressful times and is also mood-enhancing, assists birds to feel less anxious and fearful during stress conditions like vaccination and transportation.

4. Alpinia galanga (Galangal)

Galangal contains a host of anti-oxidants that helps to minimize the damage caused by free radicals and other toxins in the body. Studies suggest that galangal root may kill harmful bacteria, including E. coli, Staphyloccocus aureus, and Salmonella Typhi. The root may protect against fungi, yeasts, and parasites. The anti-inflammatory gingerols play a role in inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis and reducing inflammation. Galangal delivers good amounts of Vitamin C and more than a dozen antioxidants including alpine and galanin, making it an excellent immunity booster. The antispasmodic effect of the spice reduces the sputum, as well as dilates the bronchioles.

Related: How to manage Cold stress in Poultry

5. Allium sativum (Garlic)

 Garlic acts as a powerful herbal remedy that effectively treats most chronic respiratory diseases. The active ingredients present in this miracle herb not only act against bacteria and fungi but also protects against various parasites, yeast and viral infections. Allicin present in garlic possesses antioxidant properties that help in treating throat infections and reducing the severity of upper respiratory tract infections. Aids in decreasing tissue inflammation caused due to respiratory congestion. It is one of the best natural expectorants that is widely used to treat chronic bronchitis.