Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is an evergreen plant from the mint family. It has been used for culinary, medicinal, ornamental and folk medicine purposes in different cultures. Thyme is used fresh and dry, as a whole branch (a stem separated from the plant) and as an essential oil extracted from the parts of the plant. Thyme volatile oils are one of the main essential oils used in food and cosmetic industries as preservatives and antioxidants.
The specific applications studied in poultry are:
Antioxidant: Thyme oil shows potential to improve intestinal barrier integrity, antioxidant status, as well as inducing immune response in chickens.
Antibacterial: Thyme oil (1 gram per kilogram of diet) was effective in reducing coliform counts when used to create a spray to improve hygiene.
