Introduction
- Oregano Oil
- Lavender Oil
- Melaleuca
- Tea Tree Oil- Melaleuca
- Peppermint Oil
- Frankincense Oil
- Clove Oil
- Lemon Oil
- Orange Oil
- Nutmeg
- Other Essential Oils for Chickens
Table of Contents
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential Oils products for Chickens are pure extracts of plants that have multiple benefits for the health of your flock. Essential oils are within different parts of plants and are beneficial for both humans and hens. It is a concentrated liquid of plants having fragrance and it’s the essence, which can be used for various purposes, like precautionary and healing purposes. But the right method and amount of using it is very essential, so use it with caution and consider.
Are Essential Oils Safe For Chickens
Yes, essential oils can be safe for chickens when used correctly and following with recommended quantity and procedure. However, it’s essential to be careful and ensure that you are using it correctly to avoid any risks or negative effects on your chickens’ health.
What Essential Oils Are Safe for Chickens?
Most of the essential oils are worth buying and beneficial and are considered safe. The success rate of essential oils is good for chickens when these oils can be used effectively according to the instructions mentioned, so read the review of essential oil use. First, dilute the extracted oils and follow proper dilution guidelines. Diluting means adding more essential oils to water in different quantities according to needs and purpose.
Safe Oils- Lavender Oil: Calming, Stress Relief, Respiratory Relief
- Peppermint Oil: Insect Repellent, Respiratory Relief
- Rosemary Oil: Antibacterial, Antifungal, Respiratory Support
- Clove Oil: Red Mites and Lice Repellent
- Lemon Oil: Refreshing, Respiratory support
- Oregano Oil: Antibacterial, Antifungal, Increase Immunity
- Melaleuca (Tea Tree) Oil: Mite and lice repellent, antifungal (use diluted with caution)
- Wild Orange Oil: Pleasant Citrus Fragrance
Why Were Essential Oils Developed?
The development of Essential Oils has a long history, and it is not developed regularly. Try using essential oils that are extracted from various parts of the plant, like leaves, stems, roots, seeds, and flowers. They have a long history of use in different environments for different reasons. Here are some of the main reasons why essential oils can be used.
- Aromatherapy. Essential Oils, often combined with other herbs, are used for healing properties to feel better. Environment with these oils can help relax, lower stress, and feel happier and healthier flock.
- Traditional Medicine. Essential oils are special oils used as a traditional medicine. For example, Lavender oil has been used for calming effects, while tea tree oil has been used to help fight off germs and keep things clean.
- Perfumes and Fragrances: Initially, these oils are for helpful and useful purposes like food preservation, covering up unpleasant smells from the environment naturally, and care products.
- Natural Cleaning: Some essential oils, such as lemon oil and tea tree oil, are used as natural cleaning solutions due to their antibacterial properties.
- Skin Care: These vital oils are added to skincare products for their benefits, such as moisturizing, soothing, and revitalizing skin health.
- Flavoring: Certain essential oils, like peppermint and citrus oils, are used for natural taste and aroma in food and beverages.
- Religious Health: In many cultures, essential oils are sometimes used in religious ceremonies and complementary or alternative therapies to support overall health and happiness. Oil offerings and purification ways due to their concentrated scents and perceived spiritual connections.
Which Essential Oils Are Safe for Chickens?
Several essential oils in chicken are considered safe for chickens when used cautiously and in a balanced way. It’s essential to remember that backyard chickens can be easily affected by strong smells, so using diluted essential oils sparingly and correctly is crucial. Here are some essential oils that are generally considered safe for chickens
- Lavender Oil
- Peppermint Oil
- Rosemary Oil
- Clove Oil
- Lemon Oil
- Melaleuca (Tea Tree) Oil
- Orange Oil
- Nutmeg Oil
What Essential Oils Are Bad for Chickens
A few essential oils can be harmful to chickens if used wrongly or in excessive quantities. It’s important to be aware of the list of essential oils that are considered not safe for chickens. It is advised always to study and consult with an expert veterinarian before using essential oils on chickens to ensure their safety. Here is a list of essential oils that should be avoided or used with extreme care.
- Wintergreen Oil. Avoid; contains toxins when ingested or applied.
- Pennyroyal Oil. Avoid; considered harmful to chickens.
- Camphor Oil. Use with caution. It can be toxic when ingested.
- Eucalyptus Oil Use sparingly. It may cause respiratory issues if inhaled too much.
- Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca). Use in highly diluted forms. It can be harmful when used concentrated.
How Do Essential Oils Work?
Different Essential oils work best on chickens, depending on the oil, and essential oils offer a number of benefits. These oils can offer multiple benefits for chickens true when essential oilswhen used cautiously and in a balanced way. Good smells can help chickens in lots of ways. Here are some of the benefits of using essential oils for chickens.
- Stress Reduction
- Respiratory Health
- Repelling Pests
- Antibacterial and Antifungal
- Improved Egg Production
- Environmental Enrichment
- Soothing Effects
- Natural Cleaning
- Boosting Relaxation
What are the Benefits of Essential Oils? | Essential Oils for Sick Chickens
Essential oils can offer several benefits, but the most important is used to treat sick chickens. They have multiple benefits: Antibacterial Properties, Antiviral, Antifungal Action, Anti-Inflammatory, Respiratory Relief, Calming Effects, Pain Relief, and most importantly, Boosted Immunity.
How Do I Add Essential Oils to My Feed?
Adding essential oils to poultry feed can be a great way but it’s important to be done with caution to ensure safety and significance. Never apply undiluted essential oils directly. Here are steps to add oils that oils are used as feed additives.
Pick the Best Essential Oils
Select pure, high-quality essential oils suitable for chicken use. Ensure they are free from additives or synthetic ingredients.
Select a Carrier Oil
Don’t just add the oil straight to their food. Instead, mix it with a bit of olive oil or coconut oil first. The carrier oil helps distribute the essential oil evenly.
Dilute the Essential Oil
Never apply it directly on a chicken or anything they touch. Mix a small amount of the selected essential oil in a separate container with the carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. The exact dilution ratio can differ, but a general procedure is 1-2 drops of that oil per tablespoon of carrier oil.
Blend It
Stir or shake the mixture well to ensure an even distribution of the oil within the carrier oil.
Add to Feed
Slowly spray the diluted essential oil mixture over the poultry feed. Mix the feed thoroughly to coat it with the oil mixture evenly. Ensure that all flocks have access to the treated feed.
Observe Their Eating
Watch how the flock responds to the treated feed. Confirm they are consuming it without any signs of dislike or distress. If any negative reactions occur, stop using it immediately.
Use Sparingly
Essential oils should always be used evenly and as required. Avoid overusing them, as powerful scents may frighten chickens from eating.
Consult a Poultry Expert
Before introducing essential oils into your flock’s feed, consult with a poultry specialist or veterinarian to confirm that the specific oils and concentrations of the essential oil you plan to use are safe and suitable for your flocks.
Rotate Oils
If you plan to use essential oils regularly, consider rotating different oils to prevent potential resistance or aversion. Essential oils can also offer various benefits to your chickens.
How to Start Taking Care of Your Flock Naturally
Starting to care for a natural approach to flock health can be a rewarding journey and dozens of eggs. Here are some actions to get you on the right path:
Create a Healthy Environment
- Spacious and Secure Coop
- Natural Bedding
- Free Range Access
Natural Feed
- Organic Feed
- Greeny Treat
- Kitchen Leftovers
Wellness and Prevent Disease
- Herbal Treatment
- Essential Oils (With Caution)
- Natural Cleaning
Observe and Monitor
- Regular Checkups
- Daily Observation
- Listen to Your Flock
Continuous Learning
- Connect with Other Chicken Keepers
- Research and Read
Winter Demands for Your Hens
Winter shows a unique set of challenges for your hens, requiring adjustments to their environment and care pattern. Here’s my study of keeping my chickens, in which I make some changes according to their winter demands
Suitable Temperature
- Dropping Temperatures.
- The best temperature for hens is between 65° and 75°F. Temperature above 75°F can cause stress on the chickens, which impacts their egg production and overall health.
- Draft-free Coop. Provide your chicken with a well-insulated and draft-free, reducing heat loss and keeping your hens relaxed while raising chickens.
- Bedding. Provide 3 to 4 inches of dry, absorbent bedding like straw woodchips or rice husk for heat from the floor.
Nutrition
- Increased Energy Demands. Hens burn more energy during winter to maintain their body temperature. Offer good quality, balanced feed with additional nutrients from grains, fats, and proteins.
- Fresh Water Access. Ensure regular access to clean, unfrozen water. Dehydration can occur even in winter, impacting their health and egg production.
- Supplemental Treats. Offer treats like mixed grains or cooked vegetables for extra energy and carbohydrate, which converts into fats.
Light
Winter shows a unique set of challenges for your hens, requiring adjustments to their environment and care pattern. Here’s my study of keeping my chickens, in which I make some changes according to their winter demands
- Reduced Daylight Hours: Short daylight hours during winter disturb their natural laying cycle. Provide artificial lighting to maintain a 14-16 hour light cycle for ideal egg production.
- Reduce Stress: Sudden changes in light can be stressful. Modify their lighting time gradually to minimize disorder in their routine.
Health and Hygiene
- Increased Chances to Illness: Cold weather weakens their immunity, making them more weaken to diseases. Observe their health closely and maintain good cage hygiene.
- Moisture Control: Proper ventilation is essential to control dampness and the growth of mold, which can cause respiratory issues.
- Foot Care: Cold, wet flooring can cause frostbite on their feet. Inspect their feet regularly and apply petroleum jelly if required.
Extra Enrichment
- Bored: In winter, chickens go less often to free range means less outdoor time. Provide activities like hanging toys, scratching things, and foraging options within the coop to keep them engaged.
- Social Interaction: Chickens love social interactions. Ensure they have enough friends in the coop to avoid loneliness and stress.
How Much Should You Use?
The amount of essential oils to use for a chicken flock depends on several factors, including the number of chickens in your flock, the age of the chickens, and the reason for using the oils. Essential oils should be used mildly and cautiously to avoid shocking the chickens with strong smells or causing any negative reactions. Here is the method how i use it.
I usually mix 20 drops of Peppermint oil and 10 drops of Tea Tree oil per gallon or 128 ounces of water. I used to Spray heavily inside the coop in the daytime when the chickens were outside.
General Dilution Ratio
Oil should be between 0.5 % – and 2% essential oil. This is a safe range for most oils used in the coop. Dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil before using.
Calculating the Dilution
Here’s a simple formula to calculate the required amount of essential oil
Desired Dilution % x Total Volume (in ml) = Volume of Essential Oil (in drops)For example, to create a 1% dilution of Oregano oil in 100 ml of carrier oil (Olive Oil), you would use.
1% x 100 ml = 1 ml of essential oil (approximately 20 drops)
Topical vs. Coop Applications
While the 0.5% – 2% range applies to most oils, slight adjustments might be necessary based on the intent of what purpose you want to use.
| Topical Applications | Coop Applications |
|---|---|
| If you want to apply directly on feathers or skin-like infection care, consider towards the lower end of the range of (0.5% – 1%). | For diffusing oils within the coop (e.g., for reducing stress or pest control), you can consider the higher end of the range (1% – 2%). |
Specific Oil Recommendations
- Lavender Chamomile Oil 0.5% – 1% for reducing stress and giving soothing.
- Peppermint Oil 0.5% – 1% for respiratory issues and insect repellent.
- Rosemary Oil: 0.5% – 1% for respiratory problems, pest repellent, and antibacterial properties.
- Melaleuca (Tea Tree) Oil 0.25% – 0.5% for mite and lice repellent and cure of respiratory tract infection.
- Clove: 0.25% – 0.5% for repelling insects, red mites, lice, and fleas.
Essential Oils for Mites on Chickens
Essential oils can be used to help control mites on chickens naturally. Some essential oils are known for their effectiveness against mites.
- Lavender Oi
- Peppermint Oil
- Melaleuca Oil (Tea Tree Oil)
- Eucalyptus Oil
- Neem Oil
Essential oils can be used to help control mites on chickens naturally. Some essential oils are known for their effectiveness against mites. When using essential oils for mites on chickens, it’s essential to dilute them correctly and use them as part of an external mite control technique. You can mix a few drops of the selected essential oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil) and apply it to the coop’s walls, floor, and roofs, or you can directly apply it to the chicken’s feathers, depending upon the intensity of mites. Still, you must take care to avoid eye contact and sensitive body areas.
5 Ways to Use Essential Oils for Chicken
- In Coop and Nesting Boxes. Add a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or thyme, diluted in a carrier oil to cage bedding or nesting spaces. It helps create a nice and comfortable environment while repelling insects.
- In Feed. Dilute essential oils in a carrier oil according to the mentioned ratio and add them to the chicken’s feed. Some oils, like oregano or cinnamon, may be used to keep the overall health of the flock. Start with small amounts and observe the chicken’s reaction.
- In Water. Sometimes, you can add a drop or two of essential oil to the chicken’s drinking water. It gives a very good, mild, fragrant water, but make sure not to make the water too strong and concentrated.
- As a Spray. Create a diluted essential oil spray to apply directly to the chicken’s feathers. It can help repel insects and provide a refreshing smell. Ensure the spray is lightly fog over and avoid eye and face contact.
- Inhaled Aromatherapy. Use a diffuser in the coop to spread essential oil vapors into the air evenly. It can help create a relaxing and stress-free atmosphere for your chickens.
Essential Oils Used in Poultry Production
In Poultry production, essential oils are used as a natural alternative to antibiotics and medicines to support immunity and keep your flock healthy. Medicinal routine antibiotics in flock health are not recommended. These oils are extracted from various plants and offer a wide range of benefits like reducing stress, immune booster, bug repellent, and refreshing the atmosphere of coop.
It must be used cautiously, and with expert guidance, these oils can provide holistic and environment-friendly needs to poultry care. It is the alternative way to synthetic chemicals. It promotes the immunity and overall health of the hens, helping to create a healthier flock that generates a good number of eggs.
Can I Get the Benefits of Essential Oils from the Plant Alone?
Even though both the plant itself and essential oils derived from it can potentially be beneficial for chickens. Several factors influence whether the chickens can get the same benefits, and the answer depends on each specific situation.
- Bioavailability. Chickens may not be able to absorb all the beneficial compounds from the plant all the time effectively as they can from the concentrated oil.
- Dosage. Consuming a whole plant might not be possible every day while using an essential oil allows for more control of dosage.
- Plant Variety. Different parts of the plant may have different levels of healthy compounds, so chickens might not eat the most beneficial parts.
- Target Benefit. Some benefits, like pest control or wound healing, are difficult to get the result through the plant itself.
Essential Oils Effective Treatment for the Twelve Major Poultry Pathogens
| Microorganisms/Pathogens | Essential oils |
|---|---|
| Aspergillus Niger | Eucalyptus, Oregano(1% – 2%). |
| Bacillus Cereus | Rosemary, Sage |
| Bacillus Subtilis | Oregano, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme |
| Candida Albicans (Yeast) | Eucalyptus, Garlic, Oregano, Thyme |
| Eimeria | Oregano, Thyme |
| Enterobacter Cloacae | Eucalyptus, Garlic, Oregano, Thyme |
| Enterobacter Faecalis | Thyme |
| E. coli | Oregano, Peppermint, Rosemary, Thyme |
| Listeria Monocytogenes | Oregano, Peppermint, Rosemary, Thyme |
| Pseudomonas Aeruginosa | Peppermint, Thyme |
| Salmonella sp. | Eucalyptus, Garlic, Oregano, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage, Tea Tree, Thyme |
| Staphylococcus Aureus | Eucalyptus, Garlic, Oregano, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage, Tea Tree, Thyme |
Wound Care Ointment
Essential oils can still play a vital role in wound care for chickens, but indirectly. Essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, can be used as an organic wound care ointment for chickens.
- Dilute a few drops of the selected oil, such as lavender, tea tree, or frankincense, in a carrier oil and gently clean the wound.
- Mix well, apply the diluted oil mixture to the affected area, and observe the wound’s healing progress.
- Reapply if needed, but if there are any problems, consult a veterinarian immediately.
Essential oils can actually promote wound healing and offer antimicrobial benefits only when used correctly.
Use Citrus Essential Oils for Cleaning
- Clean the coop in day time when chickens are out side the cage.
- Mix 1 drop of citrus essential oil with water or vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Spray the mixture on coop surfaces like walls, floors, roofs, and nesting boxes.
- Let it sit for a few minutes to settle dirt and odors.
- Scrub and wipe the hard surfaces with a cleaning cloth.
- Ensure proper air crossing during and after cleaning.
- Repeat the steps as needed to maintain a fresh coop environment.
- Citrus essential oils naturally freshen the coop and have cleaning properties.
Oregano Essential Oil for Chickens | Oregano as a Feed Add-On
Oregano is the best feed additive for the chicken’s tummies. A drop of oregano oil is the special thing that does magic for the internal health of the chicken. It not only helps their good bacteria grow stronger but also keeps the bad ones weaker. It gives a natural boost to their digestive system, which helps them to stay healthy on the inside. It gives little support for their tummies and overall health.
- Digestive Health (Increase Immunity)
- Stronger Immunity (Boosts good guys)
- Natural Organic Antibacterial
- Less Stress (Antioxidant Shield)
Precautions
- Don’t Overdose
- Use it Fresh
- Observe Your chickens
Add a little oregano essential oil and thyme magic to their feed, and you can help your feathered pet stay happy and healthy from the tummies. Undiluted essential oil is very dangerous for chickens. So, adding a small amount of oregano to their meals can be a tasty and healthy treatment that keeps chickens feeling like giving them a little secret weapon to stay strong and happy.
Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil like coconut or olive before using them on your chickens. Safety first!
Is Peppermint Essential Oil Safe for Chickens
Peppermint essential oil can be safe for chickens when used moderately and with caution. Peppermint oil is also famous for its pleasant smell and benefits, including its power to repel pests and boost respiratory health. However, it’s important to follow these procedures when using peppermint essential oil with chickens
Essential Oils for Layers and Chickens
Yes, essential oils are necessary for the well-being and health of both laying hens (layers) and chickens in general with the provided method on the bottle. Essential oils can be safe for chickens when used properly and in accordance with recommended guidelines. These oils were included in broiler feed also. However, it’s essential to be careful and make sure that you are using it correctly and with the correct dosage to avoid any possible risks or negative effects on your chicken’s health. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and ensure that you are using them correctly to avoid any potential risks or adverse effects on your chickens’ health.
20 Most Used Essential Oils in the Production of Poultry, Hens and Chickens
While the top 10 essential oils are widely used, I’m listing a various selection of 20 oils, allowing you to pick the perfect one depending on your specific needs and what’s readily accessible.
- Oregano Oil
- Lavender Oil
- Peppermint Oil
- Melaleuca (Tea Tree) Oil
- Frankincense Oil
- Clove Oil
- Lemon Oil
- Orange Oil
- Nutmeg Oil
- Eucalyptus Oil
- Thyme Oil
- Cinnamon Oil
- Geranium Oil
- Rosemary Oil
- Eucalyptus Radiata Oil
- Cedarwood Oil
- Lemongrass Oil
- Chamomile Oil
- Ginger Oil
- Thieves Oil Blend
Give Your Chickens the Benefit of Gentle Aromatic Essential Oils
Aroma Adventures for Your Flock health
- Stress-Calming. Diffuse diluted lavender or chamomile oil in the coop and its surroundings to create a relaxing environment, especially during weather changes or after transportation.
- Respiratory Problems. Mist diluted peppermint or eucalyptus oil sparingly in the air (avoiding direct eye contact) to clear breathing issues, especially during colder seasons.
- Bug-Repellent. Rosemary and sage essential oils, again diluted and used carefully, can be sprayed around the coop run to prevent flying or crawling insects.
Make Your Own DIY Chicken Coop Diffuser
Creating a DIY Chicken Coop Diffuser involves a few basic steps. Here’s a basic design, along with images for each step, for better understanding.
Time 2 hours
Estimated Cost 10-20$
Step 1
Gather Materials. You’ll need a small fan, a piece of absorbent fabric, essential oils (like lavender or eucalyptus), and a few basic tools for installation.
Step 2
Assemble the Frame. According to the fan’s size, attach a frame that can be placed or hung inside the chicken cage. Make sure it’s far from the reach of the chickens.
Step 3
Prepare the Diffuser Pad. Cut the absorbent material, like fabric or cotton rope, to a size that can be easily attached in front of the fan. This fabric will act as the diffuser pad.
Step 4
Apply Essential Oils. Apply a few drops of the chosen diluted essential oils onto the diffuser pad.
Step 5
Attach the Diffuser Pad: Attach the pad in front of the fan. Make sure that it’s not blocking the airflow but is close enough to allow the fan to spread the scent.
Step 6
Install the Coop Diffuser. Place or hang the diffuser in a position within the coop where it can distribute the scent without being a disturbance to the chickens.
Step 7
Maintenance. Regularly check the diffuser to refill the essential oils and clean the fabric pad if needed.
How to Start Taking Care of Your Flock Naturally
To start taking care of your flock’s health organically and naturally, using essential oils can be a useful method. Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint have qualities that can help to create a calm and healthy environment for your birds. For example, lavender oil is known for its calming effects, which can be helpful in reducing stress in chickens. Eucalyptus essential oils significantly reduced respiratory issues, while peppermint oil may repel pests and mites.
Essential Oils for Chickens Are a Great Option Rather Than Dried Herbs
Herbs and essential oils are both great options for chickens, but in my experience, If you can use these oils by following instructions, an essential oil is a better choice, and as a beginner, it’s better if you consult a vet.
While the advantages of essential oil for chicken are far more than dried herb due to many reasons, like safety, concerns, dosage, application, cost, availability, and natural alternatives, we can say that dried herb is a great option if we are a beginner in this field.
Some General Guidelines
When using essential oils for chickens, it’s essential to follow some general guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of your flock. Firstly, always dilute essential oils before use, as their concentrated forms can be too strong for chickens and can harm them. You can dilute them with water or a carrier oil. Some common oils like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus are famous for their calming, pest-repelling, and respiratory issues benefits. Still, it’s important to use them in very small quantities; a little goes a long way.
Conclusion
Always introduce any oils gradually and monitor the flock for any signs of stress or bad reactions. Avoid applying oils directly to the chicken’s skin, and instead, use diffusers or apply oils to coop walls, bedding, or nesting materials. Regularly clean and maintain areas where oils are used. Most importantly, consult with a poultry veterinarian before implementing any new treatments, including essential oils, to ensure they are safe and beneficial for your flock.