Summary
This narrative review examines the biological mechanisms through which phytogenic extracts—secondary metabolites derived from plants—improve reproductive performance in livestock. The authors synthesise current evidence on how these plant-derived compounds modulate endocrine function, oxidative stress, and inflammatory pathways relevant to fertility, whilst identifying gaps in mechanistic understanding and opportunities for future investigation.
UK applicability
Findings may be relevant to UK organic and sustainable livestock production systems seeking alternatives to synthetic growth promoters, particularly following restrictions on antimicrobial growth promoters. Applicability depends on evidence strength for commercially available phytogenic products under UK husbandry conditions.
Key measures
Reproductive health parameters in livestock (likely including fertility, sperm quality, hormone profiles, and pregnancy outcomes); mechanistic pathways of phytogenic bioactives
Outcomes reported
The study reviewed mechanisms by which plant-derived bioactive compounds enhance reproductive health outcomes in livestock. The review synthesised current evidence on phytogenic extract efficacy and identified knowledge gaps for future research directions.
Topic tags
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