Review
BibTex RIS Cite

A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits

Year 2025, Volume: 3 Issue: 1, 67 - 79, 20.06.2025

Emmanuel Anaso , Olurotimi Olafadehan , Ijeoma Chibuogwu

Abstract

The tropics, particularly Nigeria, have been plagued by issues such as reduced meat production, antibiotic resistance, lipid peroxidation of meat and meat products, and subpar animal performance. The health and agricultural sectors have been severely impacted by the food crisis, the risk of farmers and animal producers not adhering to antibiotic withdrawal periods, and the high temperatures experienced in the tropics. Over time, antibiotic resistance causes cancer in the end users. Meat degradation or spoiling, on the other hand, has been linked to lipid peroxidation, which is brought on by high temperatures that create oxidative stress conditions. This paper looks at the basic issues that rabbit farmers face as well as the beneficial solutions that may be implemented through the administration of essential oils and phytogenic feed supplements, as well as the effects these treatments have on various physiological, reproductive, and nutritional parameters. The study used a qualitative analysis approach and drew on secondary sources, including internet publications, textbooks, and journals. Phytogenic supplementation has been found to promptly enhance consumer health and increase animal output by improving production indices and providing a suitable remedy to the challenges associated with antibiotic resistance and lipid peroxidation brought on by climate change.

Keywords

essential oil blood general performance carcass and meat quality semen

Ethical Statement

Review Article

Project Number

Review article

References

  • Abdelnour, S., Alagawany, M., Abd El-Hack, M.E., Sheiha, A.M., Saadeldin, I.M. & Swelum, A.A. (2018). Growth, Carcass Traits, Blood Hematology, Serum Metabolites, Immunity, and Oxidative Indices of Growing Rabbits Fed Diets Supplemented with Red or Black Pepper Oils. Animals, 8: 168. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani8100168
  • Abo Hafsa, S.H., Salem, A.Z.M., Hassan, A.A., Kholif, A.E., Elghandour, M.M.Y., Barbabosa, A. & Lopez, S. (2016). Digestion, growth performance and caecal fermentation in growing rabbits fed diets containing foliage of browse trees. World Rabbit Science, 24: 283–293. https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2016.4359
  • Ahmed E.A.E., Adham A.A.S., Daader, A.H. & Bassiony, S.M. (2019). Effect of dietary supplementation with betaine, thyme oil and their mixtures on productive performance of growing rabbits. Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research, 46(3). https://dx.doi.org/10.21608/zjar.2019.40971
  • Ahmed, A.A.A. & Abdallah, E.M. (2020). Effects of dietary phytogenic supplementation on performance, semen quality and serum biochemical of rabbits. Research square, https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-28978/v1
  • Ahmed, A.A.A., Eman, M.M.T., & Karl-Heinz, J. (2018). Thyme oil inclusion levels in a rabbit ration: Evaluation of productive performance, carcass criteria and meat quality under hot environmental conditions, Animal Nutrition, 4(4): 410-416, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aninu.2018.02.004.
  • Al-Sagheer, A.A., Daader A.H., Gabr, H.A. & Abd El-Moniem, E.A. (2017). Palliative effects of extra virgin olive oil, gallic acid, and lemongrass oil dietary supplementation on growth performance, digestibility, carcass traits, and antioxidant status of heat-stressed growing New Zealand White rabbits. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 24: 6807–6818. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-017-8396-8
  • Anaso, E.U., & John, O. Alagbe. Body thermoregulatory adaptation and blood serum mineral metabolic profile of rabbits supplemented camel’s foot (schum) seed essential oil based diet. Journal of Chemistry Science, 2025, 2(1): 1-6. https://doi.org/10.61784/jcs3002
  • Anaso E.U., Olurotimi A.O., Ijeoma C.C., Ayoola J. S., Samuel M., Joy N.A., & Emeka S.F. (2024c). Haematological profile and fertility potential of rabbits supplemented with Camel’s Foot (Piliostigma thonningii) essential oil-based diet. Turkish Journal of Agriculture-Food Science and Technology, 12(12): 2470-2477, https://doi.org/10.24925/turjaf.v12i12.2470-2477.6870
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A. & Chibuogwu, I.C. (2025a). Nutritive effects and physiological responses of rabbits supplemented with camel’s foot (Piliostigma thonningii) essential oil based diet. Vet. Arhiv, 95: 307- 318, 2025. https://doi.org/10.24099/vet.arhiv.2669
  • Anaso, E.U. (2023a). Phytogenics and essential oil supplementation in rabbit and monogastrate production:A panacea to improved animal production and antibiotic resistance challenges in Nigeria. Eastern Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 3(2): 45-51.
  • Anaso, E.U. (2023b). Bioactive compounds of Piliostigma thonningii essential oil detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Eastern Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 3(2): 68-72.
  • Anaso, E.U. & Al-hassan, S.M. (2025). Identification and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain PAO1 Isolated from African Catfish skin Scrapings. Science Letters, 13(1): 1324350sl. https://doi.org/10.47262/SL/13.1.132024350
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A. & Oluwafemi, R.A. (2021). Biodegradation of agro industrial by products as a panacea to feed scarcity in Nigeria amidst farmer insecurity and global pandemic. Proceedings of the 46th Annual Nigerian Society for Animal Production Conference, Dutsin-Ma, Nigeria, pp. 616 - 620.
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., & Chibuogwu, I.C. (2023). Semen characteristics of rabbits fed Camel’s Foot (Piliostigma thonningii) essential oil supplemented diet. Discovery, 59, e36d1037.
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., Chibuogwu, I.C., & Alagbe, J.O. (2024a). Seminal morphology and organ morphometrics of rabbit bucks fed Piliostigma thonningii essential oil supplemented diet. Science Letters, 12(2): 70-75. https://doi.org/10.47262/SL/12.2.132024280
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., & Emeka, F.S. (2024d). Carcass and meat quality of rabbits supplemented with Camel’s Foot (Piliostigma thonningii) essential oil-based diet. Archiva Zootechnica 27(2): 36-51, https://doi.org/10.2478/azibna-2024-0013
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., Shoyombo, A.J., & Emeka, F.S. (2024b). Body weight, scrotal parameters, and semen characteristics of Kano Brown bucks fed Pleurotus ostreatus solid-state fermented sugarcane scrapings. Turkish Journal of Food and Agricultural Science, https://doi.org/10.53663/turjfas.1486383.
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., Chıbuogwu, I.C. & Shoyombo, A.J. (2025b). Nutrient Digestibility, Growth Performance, Ceacal Microbial Profile and Fermentation Characteristics of Rabbit Bucks Fed Piliostigma thonningii Essential Oil Supplemented Diet. Biotechnology in Animal Husbandary (Inpress).
  • Arslan, C., Pirinc, A., Eker, N., Sur, E., Undag, I. & Kusat, T. (2022). Dietary encapsulated essential oil mixture influence on apparent nutrient digestibility, serum metabolic profile, lymphocyte histochemistry and intestinal morphology of laying hens. Animal Bioscience 35(5):740-751. https://doi.org/10.5713/ab.21.0275
  • Bassiony, S.S.M., Elhindawy, M.M., Attia, A.E. & Ismail, I.E. (2015). Effect of some bioactive components of essential oils on growing rabbits performance. Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research 42(5).
  • Benlemlih, M., Aarab, A., Bakkali, M., Arakrak, A. & Laglaoui, A. (2014). Effect of dietary fennel and thyme essential oil supplementation on zootechnical parameters and caecal microflora of growing rabbit. Revue Microbiologie Industrielle, Sanitaire, et Environnementale 8(1):16-25.
  • Cardinali, R., Cullere, M., Dal Bosco, A., Mugnai, C., Ruggeri, S., Mattioli, S. & DalleZotte, A. (2015). Oregano, rosemary and vitamin E dietary supplementation in growing rabbits: Effect on growth performance, carcass traits, bone development and meat chemical composition. Livestock Science 175: 83-89. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.livsci.2015.02.010
  • Celia, C., Cullere, M., Gerencsér, Z.S., Matics, Z.S., Giaccone,V., Kovács, M., Bónai, A., Szendro, Z.S., Dalle Zotte, A., Matics, Z.S., Celia,C., Dalle Zotte, A., Szendrő, Z., KOvács, M., Cullere, M., Giaccone, V., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2016). Dietary supplementation of DigestaromⓇ herbal formulation: effect on apparent digestibility, faecal and caecal microbial counts and live performance of growing rabbits. World Rabbit Science 24: 95105. http://dx.doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2016.4069
  • Cervantes-Valencia, M.E., Alcala-Canto, Y., Salem, A.Z.M., Kholif, A.E., Ducoing-Watty, A.M., Bernad-Bernad, M.J., & Gutiérrez-Olvera, C. (2015). Influence of curcumin (Curcumalonga) as a natural anticoccidial alternative in adult rabbits. Italian Journal of Animal Science 14: 299–303. http://dx.doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2015.3838
  • Daader, A.H., Al-Sagheer, A.A., Gabr, H.A. & Abd El-Moniem, E.A. (2018). Alleviation of heat-stress-related physiological perturbations in growing rabbits using natural antioxidants. Spanish Journal of Agricultural Research, 16(3): 163-13184. https://doi.org/10.5424/sjar/2018163-13184
  • DalleZotte, A. (2002). Perception of rabbit meat quality and major factors influencing the rabbit carcass and meat quality. Livestock Production Science 75: 11–32. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0301-6226(01)00308-6
  • Denli M., Okan F. & Uluocak A. M. (2004). Effect of dietary supplementation of herb essential oils on the growth performance carcass and intestinal characteristics of quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). South African Journal of Animal Science, 34: 174-179. http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0375-15892004000300006&lng=en&tlng=en.
  • Dhama, K., Latheef, S.K., Mani, S., Samad, H.A., Karthik, K., Tiwari, R., Khan, R.U., Alagawany, M., Farag, M.R., Alam, G.M., Laudadio, V. & Tufarelli, V. (2015). Multiple beneficial applications and modes of action of herbs in poultry health and production-a review. International Journal of Pharmacology 11: 152–176. https://doi.org/10.3923/ijp.2015.152.176
  • Ding, X., Yu, Y., Su, Z. & Zhang, K. (2017). Effects of essential oils on performance, egg quality, nutrient digestibility and yolk fatty acid profile in laying hens. Journal of Animal Nutrition 3: 127-31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aninu.2017.03.005.
  • El-Azeem, A.A.A., Al-Sagheer, A.A., Daader, A.H. & Bassiony, S.M. (2019). Effect of dietary supplementation with betaine, thyme oil and their mixtures on productive performance of growing rabbits. Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research, 46(3): 815-828. http:/www.journals.zu.edu.eg/journalDisplay.aspx?Journalld=1&queryType=Master
  • Elghalid, O.A., Kholif, A.E., El-Ashry, G.M., Matloup, O.H., Olafadehan, O.A., El-Raffaa, A.M & AbdEl-Hadya, A.M. (2020). Oral supplementation of the diet of growing rabbits with a newly developed mixture of herbal plants and spices enriched with special extracts and essential oils affects their productive performance and immune status. Livestock Science 238: 104082. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.livsci.2020.104082
  • Elghandour, M.M.Y., Kholif, A.E., López, S., Mendoza, G.D., Odongo, N.E. & Salem, A.Z.M. (2016). In vitro gas, methane and carbondioxide productions of high fibrous diet incubated with fecal inocula from horses in response to the supplementation with different live yeast additives. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 38: 64–71. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jve.2016.02.007
  • Elghandour, M.M.Y., Vázquez Chagoyán, J.C., Salem, A.Z.M., Kholif, A.E., Martínez Castañeda, J.S., Camacho, L.M. & Buendía, G. (2014). In vitro fermentative capacity of equine fecal inocula of 9 fibrous forages in the presence of different doses of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 34: 619-625. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jevs.2013.11.013
  • El-Gogary, M. R., Mansour, A. M. & El-Said, E. A. (2018). Blood biochemical and immunological responses to garlic oil administration in growing rabbit’s diet. Journal of Agricultural Science 10(1): 217-224. http://dx.doi.org/10.5539/jas.v10n1p217
  • El-Gogary, M.R., El-Said, E.A. & Mansour, A.M. (2018). Physiological and immunological effects of rosemary essential oil in growing rabbit diets. Journal Agricultural Science 10: 485. https://doi.org/10.5539/jas.v10n7p485
  • El-Nomeary, Y.A.A., Abedo, A.A. Fatma, M., Salman, Abo Sedera, S, Soad, M. Nasr Somia,. Nassar, A & Ibraheim, Sh.A.M. (2020). Effect of adding cinnamon, garlic and juniper essential oils on productive performance of New-Zealand White rabbits. Egyptian Journal of Nutrition and Feeds 23(3): 409-424. https://doi.org/10.21608/ejnf.2020.148125
  • El-Ratel, I.T., Attia, K.A.H., El-Raghi, A.A. & Fouda, S.F. (2021). Relief of the negative effects of heat stress on semen quality, reproductive efficiency and oxidative capacity of rabbit bucks using different natural antioxidants. Animal Bioscience 34(5): 844-854. https://doi.org/10.5713/ajas.20.0258
  • Emmanuel, U.A., & Alhassan, M.S. (2025). A Review of Mycotoxins and Food Storage. Eastern Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 5(1): 10–20. https://doi.org/10.53906/ejabs.v5i1.353
  • Emmanuel, U.A. (2024). Macro and Micro Anatomy of the Male Genitalia of the Nigerian Laughing Dove (Spilopelia senegalensis). Eastern Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 4(3): 31–44. https://doi.org/10.53906/ejabs.v4i3.341
  • FAO. (2009). Food Security and Agricultural Mitigation in Developing Countries:Options for Capturing Synergies. Rome, Italy. www.fao.org/docrep/012/i1318e/i1318e00.pdf.
  • Gado, H.M., Kholif, A.E., Salem, A.Z.M., Elghandour, M.M.Y., Olafadehan, O.A., Martinez, M.A. & AlMomani, A.Q. (2016). Fertility, mortality, milk output and body thermoregulation of growing Hy-Plusrabbits fed on diets supplemented with multi-enzymes preparation. Tropical Animal Health and Production 48: 1375–1380. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-016-1095-5
  • Ismail, I.E. & Bealish, A.M.A. (2014). Effect of acetic acid addition on growth and some physiological and immunological characteristics of growing rabbits. Egyptian Journal of Rabbit Sciencei 24 (1): 19 – 34. https://dx.doi.org/10.21608/ejrs.2014.47467
  • Jang, I.S., Ko, Y.H. & Yang, H.Y. (2004). Influence of essential oil components on growth performance and the functional activity of the pancreas and small intestine in broiler chickens. Asian-Australas Journal of Animal Science 17: 394-400. https://doi.org/ 10.5713/ajas.2004.394.
  • Kholif, A.E., Hassan, A.A., ElAshry, G.M., Bakr, M.H., El-Zaiat, H.M., Olafadehan, O.A., Matloup, O.H. & Sallam, S.M.A. (2020). Phytogenic feed additives mixture enhances the lactational performance, feed utilization and ruminal fermentation of Friesian cows. 32(6): 708-718. Animal Biotechnology https://doi.org/10.1080/10495398.2020.1746322.
  • Koné, A.P., Cinq-Mars, D., Desjardins, Y., Guay, F., Gosselin, A. & Saucier, L. (2016). Effects of plant extracts and essential oils as feed supplements on quality and microbial traits of rabbit meat. World Rabbit Science, 24: 107-119. https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2016.3665
  • Mailafia, S., Onakpa, M.M. & Owoleke O.E. (2010). Problems and prospects of rabbit production in Nigeria – a review 2010 Bayero Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences 3(2): 20 – 25. https://doi.org/10.4314/bajopas.v3i2.63213.
  • Miguel, M.G. (2010) Antioxidant activity of medicinal and aromatic plants. A review. Flavour Frag Journal, 25: 291312. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ffj.1961
  • Morsy, T.A., Kholif, A.E., Matloup, O.H., Abu Elella, A., Anele, U.Y. & Caton, J.S. (2018). Mustard and cumin seeds improve feed utilisation, milk production and milk fatty acids of Damascus goats. Journal Dairy Research, 85: 142–151. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0022029918000043
  • Negi, P.S. (2012) Plant extracts for the control of bacterial growth: Efficacy, stability and safety issues for food application. International Journal of Food Microbiology, 156: 7-17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2012.03.006
  • Platel, K. & Srinivasan, K. (2004). Digestive stimulant action of spices: a myth or reality? Indian Journal of Medical Research, 119: 167-79.
  • Radwan Nadia, L., Hassan, R.A., Qota, E.M. & Fayek, H.M. (2008). Effect of natural antioxidant on oxidative stability of eggs and productive and reproductive performance of laying hens. International Journal of Poultry Science, 7: 134-50. https://doi.org/10.3923/ijps. 2008.134.150
  • Rhouma, R.B., Abbassi Mohamed, M.S. & Boubaker, A. (2018). Effects of supplementing diets with thymol on performance growth and caecal microflora of growing rabbit. Journal of new sciences, Agriculture and Biotechnology, 57(1): 3693-3697.
  • Soultos, N., Tzikas, Z., Christaki, E., Papageorgiou, K. & Steris, V. (2009). The effect of dietary oregano essential oil on microbial growth of rabbit carcasses during refrigerated storage. Meat Science, 81: 474–478. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.10.001
  • Tufarelli, V., Casalino, E., D’Alessandro, A.G. & Laudadio, V. (2017). Dietary Phenolic Compounds: Biochemistry, Metabolism and Significance in Animal and Human Health. Curr Drug Metab. 18(10): 905-913. https://doi.org/10.2174/1389200218666170925124004.
  • Yu, C., Guo, Y., Yang, Z., Yang, W. & Jiang, S. (2018). Effects of star anise (Illicium verum Hook.f.) essential oil on nutrient and energy utilization of laying hens. Animal Science Journal 90: 880-6. https:// doi.org/10.1111/asj.13221

A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits

Year 2025, Volume: 3 Issue: 1, 67 - 79, 20.06.2025

Emmanuel Anaso , Olurotimi Olafadehan , Ijeoma Chibuogwu

Abstract

The tropics, particularly Nigeria, have been plagued by issues such as reduced meat production, antibiotic resistance, lipid peroxidation of meat and meat products, and subpar animal performance. The health and agricultural sectors have been severely impacted by the food crisis, the risk of farmers and animal producers not adhering to antibiotic withdrawal periods, and the high temperatures experienced in the tropics. Over time, antibiotic resistance causes cancer in the end users. Meat degradation or spoiling, on the other hand, has been linked to lipid peroxidation, which is brought on by high temperatures that create oxidative stress conditions. This paper looks at the basic issues that rabbit farmers face as well as the beneficial solutions that may be implemented through the administration of essential oils and phytogenic feed supplements, as well as the effects these treatments have on various physiological, reproductive, and nutritional parameters. The study used a qualitative analysis approach and drew on secondary sources, including internet publications, textbooks, and journals. Phytogenic supplementation has been found to promptly enhance consumer health and increase animal output by improving production indices and providing a suitable remedy to the challenges associated with antibiotic resistance and lipid peroxidation brought on by climate change.

Keywords

Essential oils general performance semen carcass and meat quality

Project Number

Review article

References

  • Abdelnour, S., Alagawany, M., Abd El-Hack, M.E., Sheiha, A.M., Saadeldin, I.M. & Swelum, A.A. (2018). Growth, Carcass Traits, Blood Hematology, Serum Metabolites, Immunity, and Oxidative Indices of Growing Rabbits Fed Diets Supplemented with Red or Black Pepper Oils. Animals, 8: 168. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani8100168
  • Abo Hafsa, S.H., Salem, A.Z.M., Hassan, A.A., Kholif, A.E., Elghandour, M.M.Y., Barbabosa, A. & Lopez, S. (2016). Digestion, growth performance and caecal fermentation in growing rabbits fed diets containing foliage of browse trees. World Rabbit Science, 24: 283–293. https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2016.4359
  • Ahmed E.A.E., Adham A.A.S., Daader, A.H. & Bassiony, S.M. (2019). Effect of dietary supplementation with betaine, thyme oil and their mixtures on productive performance of growing rabbits. Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research, 46(3). https://dx.doi.org/10.21608/zjar.2019.40971
  • Ahmed, A.A.A. & Abdallah, E.M. (2020). Effects of dietary phytogenic supplementation on performance, semen quality and serum biochemical of rabbits. Research square, https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-28978/v1
  • Ahmed, A.A.A., Eman, M.M.T., & Karl-Heinz, J. (2018). Thyme oil inclusion levels in a rabbit ration: Evaluation of productive performance, carcass criteria and meat quality under hot environmental conditions, Animal Nutrition, 4(4): 410-416, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aninu.2018.02.004.
  • Al-Sagheer, A.A., Daader A.H., Gabr, H.A. & Abd El-Moniem, E.A. (2017). Palliative effects of extra virgin olive oil, gallic acid, and lemongrass oil dietary supplementation on growth performance, digestibility, carcass traits, and antioxidant status of heat-stressed growing New Zealand White rabbits. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 24: 6807–6818. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-017-8396-8
  • Anaso, E.U., & John, O. Alagbe. Body thermoregulatory adaptation and blood serum mineral metabolic profile of rabbits supplemented camel’s foot (schum) seed essential oil based diet. Journal of Chemistry Science, 2025, 2(1): 1-6. https://doi.org/10.61784/jcs3002
  • Anaso E.U., Olurotimi A.O., Ijeoma C.C., Ayoola J. S., Samuel M., Joy N.A., & Emeka S.F. (2024c). Haematological profile and fertility potential of rabbits supplemented with Camel’s Foot (Piliostigma thonningii) essential oil-based diet. Turkish Journal of Agriculture-Food Science and Technology, 12(12): 2470-2477, https://doi.org/10.24925/turjaf.v12i12.2470-2477.6870
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A. & Chibuogwu, I.C. (2025a). Nutritive effects and physiological responses of rabbits supplemented with camel’s foot (Piliostigma thonningii) essential oil based diet. Vet. Arhiv, 95: 307- 318, 2025. https://doi.org/10.24099/vet.arhiv.2669
  • Anaso, E.U. (2023a). Phytogenics and essential oil supplementation in rabbit and monogastrate production:A panacea to improved animal production and antibiotic resistance challenges in Nigeria. Eastern Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 3(2): 45-51.
  • Anaso, E.U. (2023b). Bioactive compounds of Piliostigma thonningii essential oil detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Eastern Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 3(2): 68-72.
  • Anaso, E.U. & Al-hassan, S.M. (2025). Identification and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain PAO1 Isolated from African Catfish skin Scrapings. Science Letters, 13(1): 1324350sl. https://doi.org/10.47262/SL/13.1.132024350
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A. & Oluwafemi, R.A. (2021). Biodegradation of agro industrial by products as a panacea to feed scarcity in Nigeria amidst farmer insecurity and global pandemic. Proceedings of the 46th Annual Nigerian Society for Animal Production Conference, Dutsin-Ma, Nigeria, pp. 616 - 620.
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., & Chibuogwu, I.C. (2023). Semen characteristics of rabbits fed Camel’s Foot (Piliostigma thonningii) essential oil supplemented diet. Discovery, 59, e36d1037.
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., Chibuogwu, I.C., & Alagbe, J.O. (2024a). Seminal morphology and organ morphometrics of rabbit bucks fed Piliostigma thonningii essential oil supplemented diet. Science Letters, 12(2): 70-75. https://doi.org/10.47262/SL/12.2.132024280
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., & Emeka, F.S. (2024d). Carcass and meat quality of rabbits supplemented with Camel’s Foot (Piliostigma thonningii) essential oil-based diet. Archiva Zootechnica 27(2): 36-51, https://doi.org/10.2478/azibna-2024-0013
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., Shoyombo, A.J., & Emeka, F.S. (2024b). Body weight, scrotal parameters, and semen characteristics of Kano Brown bucks fed Pleurotus ostreatus solid-state fermented sugarcane scrapings. Turkish Journal of Food and Agricultural Science, https://doi.org/10.53663/turjfas.1486383.
  • Anaso, E.U., Olafadehan, O.A., Chıbuogwu, I.C. & Shoyombo, A.J. (2025b). Nutrient Digestibility, Growth Performance, Ceacal Microbial Profile and Fermentation Characteristics of Rabbit Bucks Fed Piliostigma thonningii Essential Oil Supplemented Diet. Biotechnology in Animal Husbandary (Inpress).
  • Arslan, C., Pirinc, A., Eker, N., Sur, E., Undag, I. & Kusat, T. (2022). Dietary encapsulated essential oil mixture influence on apparent nutrient digestibility, serum metabolic profile, lymphocyte histochemistry and intestinal morphology of laying hens. Animal Bioscience 35(5):740-751. https://doi.org/10.5713/ab.21.0275
  • Bassiony, S.S.M., Elhindawy, M.M., Attia, A.E. & Ismail, I.E. (2015). Effect of some bioactive components of essential oils on growing rabbits performance. Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research 42(5).
  • Benlemlih, M., Aarab, A., Bakkali, M., Arakrak, A. & Laglaoui, A. (2014). Effect of dietary fennel and thyme essential oil supplementation on zootechnical parameters and caecal microflora of growing rabbit. Revue Microbiologie Industrielle, Sanitaire, et Environnementale 8(1):16-25.
  • Cardinali, R., Cullere, M., Dal Bosco, A., Mugnai, C., Ruggeri, S., Mattioli, S. & DalleZotte, A. (2015). Oregano, rosemary and vitamin E dietary supplementation in growing rabbits: Effect on growth performance, carcass traits, bone development and meat chemical composition. Livestock Science 175: 83-89. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.livsci.2015.02.010
  • Celia, C., Cullere, M., Gerencsér, Z.S., Matics, Z.S., Giaccone,V., Kovács, M., Bónai, A., Szendro, Z.S., Dalle Zotte, A., Matics, Z.S., Celia,C., Dalle Zotte, A., Szendrő, Z., KOvács, M., Cullere, M., Giaccone, V., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2016). Dietary supplementation of DigestaromⓇ herbal formulation: effect on apparent digestibility, faecal and caecal microbial counts and live performance of growing rabbits. World Rabbit Science 24: 95105. http://dx.doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2016.4069
  • Cervantes-Valencia, M.E., Alcala-Canto, Y., Salem, A.Z.M., Kholif, A.E., Ducoing-Watty, A.M., Bernad-Bernad, M.J., & Gutiérrez-Olvera, C. (2015). Influence of curcumin (Curcumalonga) as a natural anticoccidial alternative in adult rabbits. Italian Journal of Animal Science 14: 299–303. http://dx.doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2015.3838
  • Daader, A.H., Al-Sagheer, A.A., Gabr, H.A. & Abd El-Moniem, E.A. (2018). Alleviation of heat-stress-related physiological perturbations in growing rabbits using natural antioxidants. Spanish Journal of Agricultural Research, 16(3): 163-13184. https://doi.org/10.5424/sjar/2018163-13184
  • DalleZotte, A. (2002). Perception of rabbit meat quality and major factors influencing the rabbit carcass and meat quality. Livestock Production Science 75: 11–32. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0301-6226(01)00308-6
  • Denli M., Okan F. & Uluocak A. M. (2004). Effect of dietary supplementation of herb essential oils on the growth performance carcass and intestinal characteristics of quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). South African Journal of Animal Science, 34: 174-179. http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0375-15892004000300006&lng=en&tlng=en.
  • Dhama, K., Latheef, S.K., Mani, S., Samad, H.A., Karthik, K., Tiwari, R., Khan, R.U., Alagawany, M., Farag, M.R., Alam, G.M., Laudadio, V. & Tufarelli, V. (2015). Multiple beneficial applications and modes of action of herbs in poultry health and production-a review. International Journal of Pharmacology 11: 152–176. https://doi.org/10.3923/ijp.2015.152.176
  • Ding, X., Yu, Y., Su, Z. & Zhang, K. (2017). Effects of essential oils on performance, egg quality, nutrient digestibility and yolk fatty acid profile in laying hens. Journal of Animal Nutrition 3: 127-31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aninu.2017.03.005.
  • El-Azeem, A.A.A., Al-Sagheer, A.A., Daader, A.H. & Bassiony, S.M. (2019). Effect of dietary supplementation with betaine, thyme oil and their mixtures on productive performance of growing rabbits. Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research, 46(3): 815-828. http:/www.journals.zu.edu.eg/journalDisplay.aspx?Journalld=1&queryType=Master
  • Elghalid, O.A., Kholif, A.E., El-Ashry, G.M., Matloup, O.H., Olafadehan, O.A., El-Raffaa, A.M & AbdEl-Hadya, A.M. (2020). Oral supplementation of the diet of growing rabbits with a newly developed mixture of herbal plants and spices enriched with special extracts and essential oils affects their productive performance and immune status. Livestock Science 238: 104082. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.livsci.2020.104082
  • Elghandour, M.M.Y., Kholif, A.E., López, S., Mendoza, G.D., Odongo, N.E. & Salem, A.Z.M. (2016). In vitro gas, methane and carbondioxide productions of high fibrous diet incubated with fecal inocula from horses in response to the supplementation with different live yeast additives. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 38: 64–71. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jve.2016.02.007
  • Elghandour, M.M.Y., Vázquez Chagoyán, J.C., Salem, A.Z.M., Kholif, A.E., Martínez Castañeda, J.S., Camacho, L.M. & Buendía, G. (2014). In vitro fermentative capacity of equine fecal inocula of 9 fibrous forages in the presence of different doses of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 34: 619-625. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jevs.2013.11.013
  • El-Gogary, M. R., Mansour, A. M. & El-Said, E. A. (2018). Blood biochemical and immunological responses to garlic oil administration in growing rabbit’s diet. Journal of Agricultural Science 10(1): 217-224. http://dx.doi.org/10.5539/jas.v10n1p217
  • El-Gogary, M.R., El-Said, E.A. & Mansour, A.M. (2018). Physiological and immunological effects of rosemary essential oil in growing rabbit diets. Journal Agricultural Science 10: 485. https://doi.org/10.5539/jas.v10n7p485
  • El-Nomeary, Y.A.A., Abedo, A.A. Fatma, M., Salman, Abo Sedera, S, Soad, M. Nasr Somia,. Nassar, A & Ibraheim, Sh.A.M. (2020). Effect of adding cinnamon, garlic and juniper essential oils on productive performance of New-Zealand White rabbits. Egyptian Journal of Nutrition and Feeds 23(3): 409-424. https://doi.org/10.21608/ejnf.2020.148125
  • El-Ratel, I.T., Attia, K.A.H., El-Raghi, A.A. & Fouda, S.F. (2021). Relief of the negative effects of heat stress on semen quality, reproductive efficiency and oxidative capacity of rabbit bucks using different natural antioxidants. Animal Bioscience 34(5): 844-854. https://doi.org/10.5713/ajas.20.0258
  • Emmanuel, U.A., & Alhassan, M.S. (2025). A Review of Mycotoxins and Food Storage. Eastern Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 5(1): 10–20. https://doi.org/10.53906/ejabs.v5i1.353
  • Emmanuel, U.A. (2024). Macro and Micro Anatomy of the Male Genitalia of the Nigerian Laughing Dove (Spilopelia senegalensis). Eastern Journal of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, 4(3): 31–44. https://doi.org/10.53906/ejabs.v4i3.341
  • FAO. (2009). Food Security and Agricultural Mitigation in Developing Countries:Options for Capturing Synergies. Rome, Italy. www.fao.org/docrep/012/i1318e/i1318e00.pdf.
  • Gado, H.M., Kholif, A.E., Salem, A.Z.M., Elghandour, M.M.Y., Olafadehan, O.A., Martinez, M.A. & AlMomani, A.Q. (2016). Fertility, mortality, milk output and body thermoregulation of growing Hy-Plusrabbits fed on diets supplemented with multi-enzymes preparation. Tropical Animal Health and Production 48: 1375–1380. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-016-1095-5
  • Ismail, I.E. & Bealish, A.M.A. (2014). Effect of acetic acid addition on growth and some physiological and immunological characteristics of growing rabbits. Egyptian Journal of Rabbit Sciencei 24 (1): 19 – 34. https://dx.doi.org/10.21608/ejrs.2014.47467
  • Jang, I.S., Ko, Y.H. & Yang, H.Y. (2004). Influence of essential oil components on growth performance and the functional activity of the pancreas and small intestine in broiler chickens. Asian-Australas Journal of Animal Science 17: 394-400. https://doi.org/ 10.5713/ajas.2004.394.
  • Kholif, A.E., Hassan, A.A., ElAshry, G.M., Bakr, M.H., El-Zaiat, H.M., Olafadehan, O.A., Matloup, O.H. & Sallam, S.M.A. (2020). Phytogenic feed additives mixture enhances the lactational performance, feed utilization and ruminal fermentation of Friesian cows. 32(6): 708-718. Animal Biotechnology https://doi.org/10.1080/10495398.2020.1746322.
  • Koné, A.P., Cinq-Mars, D., Desjardins, Y., Guay, F., Gosselin, A. & Saucier, L. (2016). Effects of plant extracts and essential oils as feed supplements on quality and microbial traits of rabbit meat. World Rabbit Science, 24: 107-119. https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2016.3665
  • Mailafia, S., Onakpa, M.M. & Owoleke O.E. (2010). Problems and prospects of rabbit production in Nigeria – a review 2010 Bayero Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences 3(2): 20 – 25. https://doi.org/10.4314/bajopas.v3i2.63213.
  • Miguel, M.G. (2010) Antioxidant activity of medicinal and aromatic plants. A review. Flavour Frag Journal, 25: 291312. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ffj.1961
  • Morsy, T.A., Kholif, A.E., Matloup, O.H., Abu Elella, A., Anele, U.Y. & Caton, J.S. (2018). Mustard and cumin seeds improve feed utilisation, milk production and milk fatty acids of Damascus goats. Journal Dairy Research, 85: 142–151. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0022029918000043
  • Negi, P.S. (2012) Plant extracts for the control of bacterial growth: Efficacy, stability and safety issues for food application. International Journal of Food Microbiology, 156: 7-17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2012.03.006
  • Platel, K. & Srinivasan, K. (2004). Digestive stimulant action of spices: a myth or reality? Indian Journal of Medical Research, 119: 167-79.
  • Radwan Nadia, L., Hassan, R.A., Qota, E.M. & Fayek, H.M. (2008). Effect of natural antioxidant on oxidative stability of eggs and productive and reproductive performance of laying hens. International Journal of Poultry Science, 7: 134-50. https://doi.org/10.3923/ijps. 2008.134.150
  • Rhouma, R.B., Abbassi Mohamed, M.S. & Boubaker, A. (2018). Effects of supplementing diets with thymol on performance growth and caecal microflora of growing rabbit. Journal of new sciences, Agriculture and Biotechnology, 57(1): 3693-3697.
  • Soultos, N., Tzikas, Z., Christaki, E., Papageorgiou, K. & Steris, V. (2009). The effect of dietary oregano essential oil on microbial growth of rabbit carcasses during refrigerated storage. Meat Science, 81: 474–478. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.10.001
  • Tufarelli, V., Casalino, E., D’Alessandro, A.G. & Laudadio, V. (2017). Dietary Phenolic Compounds: Biochemistry, Metabolism and Significance in Animal and Human Health. Curr Drug Metab. 18(10): 905-913. https://doi.org/10.2174/1389200218666170925124004.
  • Yu, C., Guo, Y., Yang, Z., Yang, W. & Jiang, S. (2018). Effects of star anise (Illicium verum Hook.f.) essential oil on nutrient and energy utilization of laying hens. Animal Science Journal 90: 880-6. https:// doi.org/10.1111/asj.13221
There are 55 citations in total.

Details

Primary Language English
Subjects Enzyme and Microbial Biotechnology in Agriculture, Agricultural Biotechnology Diagnostics, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
Journal Section Reviews
Authors

Emmanuel Anaso 0009-0001-6886-8557

Olurotimi Olafadehan 0000-0003-2256-7975

Ijeoma Chibuogwu

Project Number Review article
Publication Date June 20, 2025
Submission Date March 23, 2025
Acceptance Date May 27, 2025
Published in Issue Year 2025 Volume: 3 Issue: 1

Cite

APA Anaso, E., Olafadehan, O., & Chibuogwu, I. (2025). A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits. Düzce Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi, 3(1), 67-79.
AMA Anaso E, Olafadehan O, Chibuogwu I. A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits. Düzce Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi. June 2025;3(1):67-79.
Chicago Anaso, Emmanuel, Olurotimi Olafadehan, and Ijeoma Chibuogwu. “A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits”. Düzce Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi 3, no. 1 (June 2025): 67-79.
EndNote Anaso E, Olafadehan O, Chibuogwu I (June 1, 2025) A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits. Düzce Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi 3 1 67–79.
IEEE E. Anaso, O. Olafadehan, and I. Chibuogwu, “A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits”, Düzce Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 67–79, 2025.
ISNAD Anaso, Emmanuel et al. “A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits”. Düzce Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi 3/1 (June 2025), 67-79.
JAMA Anaso E, Olafadehan O, Chibuogwu I. A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits. Düzce Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi. 2025;3:67–79.
MLA Anaso, Emmanuel et al. “A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits”. Düzce Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi, vol. 3, no. 1, 2025, pp. 67-79.
Vancouver Anaso E, Olafadehan O, Chibuogwu I. A Systematic Review on Phytogenic Feed Supplements on the Nutritive Effects, Physiological Responses and Reproductive Parameters in Rabbits. Düzce Üniversitesi Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi. 2025;3(1):67-79.
 Download Cover Image