This study explores carnosic acid (CA) from rosemary as a natural feed additive in poultry farming to counter heart inflammation caused by environmental stressors and infections, which often harm growth or lead to sudden death. Researchers tested CA’s protective effects in broilers by treating them with various doses before inducing heart inflammation through lipopolysaccharide. The results showed that CA significantly reduced markers of cardiac damage and inflammation, suggesting it effectively mitigates inflammatory responses. Moreover, CA preserved levels of crystallin alpha B, a protective protein, and prevented activation of key inflammatory pathways. These insights indicate that CA could be a safer alternative to antibiotics, offering potential benefits for animal health and reducing the risks associated with antibiotic resistance in livestock.

Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.