The influence of the phytobiotic tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) on broiler production and health

Abstract

Various types of phytobiotics have been recently used in poultry production systems to avoid the development of drug resistance and tissue residues. One such phytobiotic is holy basil or tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), an aromatic plant with multiple therapeutic functions. The powder or extract of tulsi is rich in essential oils and organic acids, which have positive effects on the physiological functions. It has been extensively used in medicine to treat many health issues. Moreover, in poultry industry, dietary tulsi has been recommended for the enhancement of general health conditions with promising results. Enrichment of broilers diets with tulsi improved the growth rate, carcass characteristics, and gut health, relived stress, and modulated the immune response and some biochemical blood parameters. This review article presents in details the different influences of dietary tulsi on these parameters in broilers.