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Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing
The flavonoids and polyphenols found in plant extracts protect cells from oxidative damage by scavenging free radicals and reducing lipid peroxidation. For instance, tea polyphenols and proanthocyanidins can enhance the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT).
They can also decrease reactive oxygen species. In studies on pet dogs, green tea polyphenols were found to inhibit adipocyte differentiation and lower the risk of obesity by regulating the expression of proteins related to fat metabolism. Meanwhile, trials with laying hens revealed that Artemisia extract significantly improved the antioxidant capacity of egg yolks and extended their shelf life.
Antioxidation and anti-stress
The flavonoids and polyphenols found in plant extracts protect cells from oxidative damage by scavenging free radicals and reducing lipid peroxidation. For instance, tea polyphenols and proanthocyanidins can enhance the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT).
They can also decrease reactive oxygen species. In studies on pet dogs, green tea polyphenols were found to inhibit adipocyte differentiation and lower the risk of obesity by regulating the expression of proteins related to fat metabolism. Meanwhile, trials with laying hens revealed that Artemisia extract significantly improved the antioxidant capacity of egg yolks and extended their shelf life.
Intestinal health and microecological regulation
Plant extracts optimise intestinal microbial communities by inhibiting harmful bacteria and promoting the growth of probiotics. For instance, Cinnamomum plant extracts can reduce urease and uricase activity, thereby reducing ammonia emissions. Yucca extracts and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) help to regulate the balance of microbes in dogs and cats by reducing harmful metabolites such as ammonia and histamine. Additionally, plant polysaccharides act as substrates for microbial fermentation, producing short-chain fatty acids that stimulate the growth of intestinal epithelial cells and enhance nutrient absorption efficiency. In piglet trials, a blend of carvacrol and cinnamaldehyde notably increased pepsin activity and alleviated diarrhoea.
They promote growth and feed conversion.
Plant extracts promote animal growth by improving the palatability of feed, increasing digestive enzyme activity and regulating hormone secretion. For instance, star anise essential oil increases intestinal villus height and feed intake in animals, while cinnamon extract delays intestinal lesions and improves feed utilisation. Studies on pet cats have shown that proanthocyanidins inhibit fat cell proliferation and reduce body fat levels by regulating genes related to fat metabolism.
Core technologies for replacing antibiotics in livestock and poultry breeding
Against the backdrop of 'antibiotic-free feed', plant extracts have emerged as a key area of research in antibiotic replacement technologies. For instance, Eucommia ulmoides leaf extract, which is rich in chlorogenic acid and Eucommia flavonoids, can replace antibiotics and promote piglet growth. Dandelion extract can enhance resistance to the Newcastle disease virus in chicks and lower mortality rates. In laying hens, Lonicera japonica and turmeric extracts can reduce the rate of shell-less eggs and improve oviduct health. Additionally, essential oils (e.g. oregano oil) and alkaloids (e.g. berberine, artemisinin and sanguinarine) can improve intestinal health by exerting antioxidant, antibacterial and antiparasitic functions. Heat-clearing herbal extracts (e.g. Scutellaria baicalensis and honeysuckle extracts) can effectively enhance the performance of heat-stressed cows.
Pet nutrition: precise regulation of health indicators
Plant extracts have been shown to have a significant effect in addressing issues such as obesity and intestinal inflammation in pet dogs. Ginkgo biloba extract reduces body weight and body fat in obese dogs. Proanthocyanidins inhibit fat cell proliferation by regulating genes related to fat metabolism. Additionally, yucca extract modulates the gut microbiota of dogs and cats, reducing harmful metabolites such as ammonia and histamine, and improving faecal odour. Pet food or snacks containing green tea polyphenols can inhibit the growth of harmful oral bacteria, reduce dental plaque and calculus, and prevent diseases such as periodontitis. Plant extracts that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as flaxseed, blueberry and lecithin extracts, can nourish pet hair, making it softer and more lustrous.
Ruminants and aquaculture: emerging application fields
In ruminants, plant extracts such as yucca saponins can regulate rumen fermentation and improve nitrogen utilisation. In aquaculture, extracts from Eucommia ulmoides leaves can boost fish immunity and reduce mortality rates.
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