Origanum Vulgare (OV) is a member of the family Lamiaceae which grows
naturally in the Mediterranean area. It is a less toxic, residue-free and standard natural
feed additive for poultry. There were many promoting characteristics of oregano
dependent on its bioactive constituents as carvacrol and thymol. It possesses many
properties, including antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antiparasitic and
immunomodulatory. The possible benefits of utilizing OV in the poultry sector include
enhancement of the growth, feed utilization, feed efficiency and improvement of the
absorption and digestion and consequently a better productive performance. On the
other hand, OV can reduce the disease occurrence and economic losses. The inclusion
of oregano essential oil [OEO] in broiler diets at levels of 0.6-1% enhanced the growth
performance and reduced the mortality in the broiler herds. Remarkable enhancement
on the intestinal microbiota, fewer fermentation products andenhanced intestinal mucus
synthesis and intestinal cell functionality have been observed by 15 mg/kg of OEO,
reflecting a whole better intestinal equilibrium in poultry. Dietary supplementation of
OEO at 300-ppm displayed higher IgG titers and enhanced the immune responses in
the broiler. Bioactive ingredients isolated from OV could be employed in poultry
feeding. To acheive the best productivity of poultry, oregano feed supplements should
be used as an alternative to antibiotics and drugs due to the absence of side effects and
residual impacts. The present chapter provides evidence on the usage of OV and its
products in poultry feeding besides their application as feed additives in the poultry
industry.
Keywords: Antioxidant, Health, Immunity, Origanum vulgare, Performance,
Poultry.
