A combination of saponins and essential oils of Asteraceae, Lauraceae and Myrtaceae plants counteracts coccidiosis-related production losses in fast-growing broilers

Eimeria spp. triggered coccidiosis is a protozoal disease of the intestinal tract relevant for different avian species. Infections result in diminished nutrient absorption and cause economic losses through performance depression [1]. Frequently, they are accompanied by secondary infections with Clostridium perfringens.

Despite rotation of chemical coccidiostats, Eimeria become resistant to these substances. The present study investigates how phytogenic feed additives can support health status of coccidiosis and C. perfringens challenged broilers. Extensive screening of EO-combinations, different saponin sources and combinations thereof [2], revealed two prototypes for testing in broiler challenge trials. Prototypes consisted of a saponin core combined with EO mixes, from Asteraceae and Lauraceae plants (PT1) or from Myrtaceae and Asteraceae plants (PT2).

1750 day-old male chickens were spray-vaccinated against coccidiosis and assigned to 5 groups of 350 birds in 7 repetitions for a 42-day feeding trial. Except non-infected non-treated group 1 (NINT), all birds were individually inoculated at days 19, 20 and 21 with C. perfringens to induce necrotic enteritis (NE). The further dietary groups were: 2) infected non-treated, 3) infected + Bacitracin-methylene-disalicylate, 4 and 5) infected + PT1 or PT2. Both prototypes compensated infection related growth depression. Feed Conversion Ratio was even improved compared with NINT. In an in-vitro dose response test only 208 ppm of PT2 were equally effective to 10 ppm Monensin regarding Eimeria sporozoite invasion [Fig. 1.]

In conclusion, the supplementation of phytogenics based on saponins and specific EO mixes can be considered as a promising and save alternative in coccidiosis and NE control.

Fig. 1 Dose response effects of PT2, basing on saponins and an EO mix from Myrtaceae and Asteraceae plants, on inhibition of Eimeria sporozoite invasion.

• References

• 1 Willis GM, Baker DH. Phosphorus utilization during Eimeria acervuline infection in the chick. Poultry Sci 1981; 60: 1960-1962
• 2 Reyer H, Zentek J, Männer K, Youssef IMI, Aumiller T, Weghuber J, Wimmers K, Mueller AS. Possible molecular mechanisms by which an essential oil blend from star anise, rosemary, thyme, and oregano and saponins increase the performance and ileal protein digestibility of growing broilers. J Agric Food Chem 2017; 65: 6821-6830