Phytogenic feed additives in poultry with special reference to Urtica dioica- A Review

Abstract

Phytogenic feed additives represent one of the most interesting and important class of current and future feed additives in poultry production. These additives show a wider range of beneficial activities than synthetic substances coupled with their easy availability, non-toxic and sustainable nature thereby making them an indispensable part of animal nutrition. Among such phytogenic additives, Urtica dioica commonly known as stinging nettle is a perennial plant belonging to the Urticaceae family which represents a plant with traditional utilisation in medicine and vegetable in many countries due to its wide range of nutritional worth and biological activities. These biological properties along with its ease of availability, together with simple processing technology can make it an excellent feed additive in broiler diets. This review provides botanical, phytochemical and pharmacological overview of the plant; analysis of published literature sources investigating the use of nettle in broiler nutrition, which provides sufficient data to confirm its high potential for dietary application in broiler industry.