Two molecules of feruloyl-CoA and one molecule of malonyl-CoA are
combined to generate turmeric (Curcuma longa), also known as curcumin, through two
enzymatic processes mediated by curcumin synthase (CURS) and DIKETIDE-CoA
SYNTHASE (DCS). DCS and CURS are members of polyketide synthase family type
III. Turmeric, a homegrown spice, has several health benefits in the medical field. One
specific bioactive ingredient produced by turmeric is curcumin, a polyphenolic
phytochemical with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant
properties. Research indicates that turmeric can substitute for antibiotics in chicken
feed and is effective. When powdered turmeric rhizomes are fed to broiler chicks,
morbidity and mortality are reduced. Furthermore, it has been shown that including
turmeric in chicken feed does not negatively impact the overall health of animals. The
use of turmeric in animal nutrition as a helpful feed additive, as well as its bioactive
components and effects on blood biochemistry, animal health, and productive
performance as an antibiotic substitute, will be covered in this chapter.
Keywords: Animal health, Bioactive substances, Growth promoter, Livestock, Productive performance, Turmeric.
