Dietary supplementation with herbal powder of Elsholtzia cypriani improves immune function in Muscovy ducks by activating endogenous antioxidant system and modulating gut microbiota.

ABSTRACT: Elsholtzia cypriani, a traditional medicinal and edible aromatic plant, exhibits antibacterial, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, making it a promising plant-based feed additive and a potential alternative to antibiotics. However, there is a lack of experimental evidence from case studies. This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with E. cypriani on Muscovy ducks. GC-MS analysis identified geranial (45.09 %) and neral (36.29 %) as the principal constituents of E. cypriani essential oil. In vitro bioactivity tests demonstrated significant inhibitory effects against Escherichia coli and Salmonella anatum. A feeding trial was conducted using medium-sized white-feathered Muscovy ducks, with 4 % E. cypriani herb powder added to their diet. The results showed th

SUBMITTER: Zhou H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12663620 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature