Summary
This narrative review synthesises current evidence on the mechanisms through which phytogenic extracts — plant-derived bioactive substances including essential oils, flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids — may enhance reproductive health outcomes in livestock. The paper likely addresses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hormone-modulating pathways as principal mechanisms of action, drawing on in vitro and in vivo studies. It also identifies research gaps and proposes future directions for translating phytogenic interventions into practical livestock production strategies.
UK applicability
Whilst this review is international in scope, its findings are broadly applicable to UK livestock systems, particularly given growing interest in natural feed additives as alternatives to routine pharmaceutical inputs under UK post-Brexit agricultural policy and the National Action Plan on antimicrobial resistance. UK producers in intensive pig, poultry, and ruminant sectors may find phytogenic supplementation relevant to improving reproductive efficiency sustainably.
Key measures
Reproductive performance indicators (fertility rate, conception rate, litter size); hormonal concentrations (e.g. LH, FSH, oestrogen, progesterone); oxidative stress biomarkers (e.g. MDA, SOD, catalase); sperm quality parameters
Outcomes reported
The review examines the biological and biochemical mechanisms by which phytogenic extracts — including essential oils, polyphenols, and plant-derived bioactive compounds — may improve reproductive performance parameters in livestock. It likely reports on outcomes such as fertility rates, hormonal profiles, oxidative stress markers, and embryonic development.
Topic tags
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