PHYTOGENICOLOGY: A NOVEL STUDY FOR EFFICIENT USE OF PHYTOGENICS IN MONOGASTRIC NUTRITION

Abstract

In this commentary a case for scholarly study of bioactive plants (Phytogenicology) used in monogastric animal feeds is made. Plants and their extracts have for decades been used by man in food and medicine. Spices such as black pepper and thyme have been used to improve acceptability of human foods. These plant materials contain certain substances that make them potent and beneficial in some aspects of human nutrition and health. Their potency has made them to be regarded as phytogenics exhibiting antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Human being share certain things in common physiologically, biochemically and nutritionally with monogastrics and having similar gut architecture. The success story of phytogenics in human nutrition has led to the current surge in their use in monogastric nutrition. Incorporating
Phytogenicology as part of the curriculum in the study of animal science, animal production or animal husbandry is important to unveil their growth and health promoting potentials, possible implications of their application and their sustainable use.