1. Introduction
For the past several decades, different strategies have been
applied to improve poultry productivity and profitability.
Antibiotics growth promoters (AGP) have been supplemented
to animal diets to promote growth, protect health and
maximize the genetic potential of poultry [1-4]. However,
issues such as loss of antibiotic efficiency along time and
risk of residues in food of animal origin, with the possible
development of bacterial resistance in humans, have
concerned consumers [5], creating a significant problem for
poultry production.
After the ban of antibiotic growth promoters in the
European Union countries many alternative substances
have been investigated for their potential to replace AGPs.
Phytobiotics are discussed as one promising alternative
due to their high content of pharmacologically active
compounds[6].
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is a member of the Labiatae
family and one of the world’s oldest medicinal herbs, and
is used in both Eastern and Western traditions. It is widely
used in herbal medicine and believed to be particularly
beneficial in building the immune system and fighting
secondary infections. Mentha extract possesses essential
oil, tannins, glycosides, saponins and other components.
Menthol is the main phenolic component in oil of Mentha
piperita which has antibacterial activities [7]. Also,
peppermint contains polyphenolic compounds, and hence
could possess strong antioxidant properties [8].
Al-Ankari et al[9] observed the beneficial influence of
wild mint on broilers productive performance. On the
other hand, Toghyani et al[10] and Ocak et al[11] did not
observed any positive effect of dry peppermint on broiler
performance and carcass traits. The present study was
designed to examine the efficacy of different levels of
ethanolic extract of peppermint (Mentha piperita) as an
antibiotic growth promoter on growth performance, and
carcass characteristics in broiler chickens when used as supplements in the drinking water.