What are phytogenics?
"Phytogenics are standardized, specific and science-based combinations of bioactive compounds found in plants with proven efficacy and a sustainable impact on animals, people, and/or the environment."
We understand the entire phytogenic universe
Delacon’s phytogenic feed additives are containing more than 100 natural ingredients being part of many different active substance groups.
Phytogenic feed additives using plant extracts show greater modes of action in animal nutrition compared to synthetic, nature-identical substances. This advantage is based on the synergistic effects of all agents within a plant, which have not been reduced to the effects of a single lead substance.
The challenge is finding the right combinations of natural substances while fully exploiting the synergy among their active ingredients. Standardizing the power of nature in feed additives with proven efficacy is key for us.
Click on a substance, to get more information!
Star anise
Illicum verum is an evergreen tree growing naturally in China and Vietnam. The name “star anise” comes from the star-shaped pericarps of the plant’s fruits and its anise-like flavor. Moreover, star anise is used in traditional Chinese medicine for dispelling cold and relieving pain.
The essential oil of star anise mainly contains trans-anethole, which has been shown to unroll anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic and antioxidative activity. Moreover, it has been suggested as an inducer of phase II enzymes, which are important parts of physiological detoxification mechanisms.
Did you know?
- Star anise in the diet of sows and piglets increases daily feed intake
- Isolated trans-anethole is effective against various bacteria, yeasts and several fungal strains
Ginger
The roots of ginger, a plant with yellow flowers, has been used by traditional Chinese and Indian medicine for centuries. Ginger roots contain essential oils and pungent substances. These can be used to activate the peristalsis of the gut and to increase salivation.
Active substances in the essential oil of ginger stimulate appetite. Pungent substances like gingerol show anti-inflammatory effects, influence metabolism and promote vasodilatation.
Did you know?
- Ginger in diet of hens increases egg production and lowers egg cholesterol
- Ginger has positive effects on gastric secretion and digestive enzyme activities
Onion
Onions are cultivated and used all over the world. This vegetable is nearly indispensable in every kitchen, used to enhance the flavor of food and to stimulate appetite.
Furthermore, the essential oils of onion show beneficial influence on respiratory functions like anti-asthmatic properties by regulating enzymeactivity and inhibition of constriction of bronchia.
Did you know?
- Essential oils of onion inhibit the growth of numerous gastrointestinal parasites
- The organosulfur compounds in onion scavenge oxidizing agents and thus prevent the formation of pro-inflammatory messengers
- Onion improves the synthesis of immunoglobulins in broilers
Caraway
Caraway belongs to the carrot family. Its crescent shaped fruits contain essential oils and fats. Carvone, the main active ingredient in caraway, is primarily responsible for caraway’s distinct odor and has moderate spasmolytic effects, combined with an antimicrobial activity.
Moreover, caraway stimulates the secretion of gastric juice and saliva. Due to its’ spasmolytic effects and its’ relaxative influence on smooth muscle tissue, caraway can efficiently be used as a carminative.
Did you know?
- Caraway contains limonene which supports the detoxification system of the organism
- Cumin alcohols, a natural compound of caraway, improve the small intestinal morphology as they increase the villus height and therefore absorptive surface
Flax
Flax, a plant of the family Linaceae, was cultivated both for its fiber, from which linen yard is made, and its nutritious seeds, from which linseed oil is obtained. Linseed oil is rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids and linolenic acid. Other important components are mucilages, glycosides and lignans.
When you eat flaxseeds, they will begin to swell in the gut and thus activating stretch receptors in the gut wall. This regulates the transit time of feed passing through the intestine. Furthermore, lignans of linseed show antioxidative effects.
Did you know?
- In the intestine, flax fiber binds with cholesterol and prevents it from being absorbed
- The omega-3 fatty acids are responsible for the “fishy” odor of linseed oil
Black pepper
Black pepper is one of the most common spices added to cuisines around the whole world - it has been used since antiquity both for its flavor and as a traditional medicine.
Pungent substances of black pepper stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes and gastric juices. Moreover, black pepper offers an appetite promoting effect. The alkaloid piperine is the principal compound responsible for the typical pungent taste of black pepper. It consists of piperidine and piperic acid.
Did you know?
- Terpenes give black pepper its antibacterial property, by perforating the bacteria’s cell wall
- By stimulating digestive enzymes, piperine reduces the gastrointestinal transit time
- Piperine improves absorption rate of other substances, like curcumin
Quebracho tannins
Quebracho grows in the Gran Chaco region of South America. The main characteristic of the plant Quebracho is its very hard, durable “axe-breaking” timber.
The condensed tannins (also called proanthocyanidins), extracted from the plants heartwood, consist of flavans such as leuco-fisetinidin. These tannins have been shown to affect nutrient digestibility and the ruminal microbiota.
Did you know?
- Quebracho tannins reduce methane emissions from cows
- Extracts from Quebracho show bacteriostatic effects against several microorganisms
- Quebracho tannins have a high antioxidant potential and protect the organism from inflammations
Turmeric
The active compound in turmeric is curcumin, which is responsible for the main physiological effects of turmeric. Curcumin is also responsible for the deep-orange-yellow color of turmeric.
Essential oils and curcuminoids of turmeric are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects. Moreover, curcumin can help improve bile flow and supports nutrient digestibility.
Did you know?
- Curcumin has immunostimulatory activity
- Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, curcumin may help with arthritis
- Curcumin is fat soluble but hardly soluble in water
Thyme
The essential oil of Thymus vulgaris induces bronchial secretion and improves motility of bronchial cilia. Besides the spasmolytic effects of some active substances in thyme oil, they show bacteriostatic properties and are efficient in the inhibition of enzymes in certain bacteria.
One of the major constituents of thyme oil is thymol, a phenolic monoterpenoid. Thymol exerts a wide range of different biological activities including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and analgesic effects.
Did you know?
- Due to its anti-bacterial activity thymol is used as food preservative, inhibiting the growth of food borne pathogens and extending shelf life
- Thymol has repellent effects against mosquitoes and other ectoparasites
Citrus fruits
Citrus plants are native to subtropical and tropical regions of Asia and the Malay Archipelago. The genus citrus contains flowering trees and shrubs, producing citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, grapefruits, pomelos and limes. Citrus fruits are known for their high content of vitamin C.
The characteristic bitter taste of e.g. lemons is caused by high concentrations of citric acid. Limonene, a relative stable monoterpene, is the major component in the oil of citrus fruit peels. It offers a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory effects.
Did you know?
- Vitamin C "traps" free radicals and participates in the regeneration of vitamin E
- Naringenin, a bioflavonoid present in various citrus fruits, has been shown to have anti-arthritic properties by downregulating inflammation factors
Quillaja
Active substances in Quillaja saponaria are triterpenoid saponins, which are mainly extracted out of the plant’s bark (but also the wood is used). These compounds have been shown to have both anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in animals and humans.
In livestock feed, quillaja saponin extracts are mainly used to reduce production of noxious gases, such as ammonia by intestinal microbes. This can help to improve health of farm animals and reduce both unpleasant odors and environmental pollution.
Did you know?
- Saponins from Quillaja bark are natural ruminal defaunating agents
- Quillaja saponins are used as adjuvants in veterinary vaccines
- The implications of feeding saponins include effects on cholesterol metabolism, cell membrane integrity and viricidal activity
“We are constantly exploring new plant compounds and putting them to work: Unlocking the plant universe for better lives.“