Functional and Economic Role of Some Mediterranean Medicinal Plants in Dairy Ruminants’ Feeding: A Review of the Effects of Garlic, Oregano, and Rosemary
Piera Iommelli, Anna Antonella Spina, Alessandro Vastolo, Lorenzo Infascelli, Daria Lotito, Nadia Musco, Raffaella Tudisco
Abstract
Botanical and herbal supplements contain diverse compounds that support health and prevent disease by influencing biological pathways. In ruminant nutrition, such supplements are rarely used as most integrations focus on production improvements using synthetic additives. This review explores the potential of Mediterranean herbs, namely, garlic, oregano, and rosemary, in dairy ruminant diets, emphasizing their effects on milk production, antioxidant activity, weaning management, in vitro studies, and economic impacts. Using medicinal plants reduces reliance on synthetic additives, lowers costs, enhances animal health, and boosts productivity. These plants align with sustainable farming practices, enable premium market access, and support local resources to improve performance and reduce livestock's environmental footprint.