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🌿 Herbs & Spices That Are Great for Your Chickens: Nature’s Health Boosters

Did you know that some of the herbs and spices in your kitchen garden or pantry aren’t just for cooking—they can be fantastic natural boosters for your chickens too? Adding certain herbs and spices to your flock’s diet or environment can improve their health, help prevent parasites, and even boost egg quality!

Here’s a rundown of the best herbs and spices for your chickens, plus how to use them safely and effectively.

Why Use Herbs & Spices for Chickens?

Before antibiotics and commercial treatments became common, farmers and backyard chicken keepers relied on nature’s pharmacy to keep flocks healthy. Herbs and spices:

• Support the immune system

• Repel or reduce parasites like mites and lice

• Aid digestion

• Freshen the coop and reduce odor

• Improve egg shell quality and yolk color

• Provide natural vitamins and antioxidants

Plus, your chickens often love nibbling on fresh greens!

Top 7 Herbs & Spices to Give Your Chickens

1️⃣ Lavender

Calming and antibacterial, lavender can be grown near the coop or added to dust baths. It helps soothe stressed hens and repel insects.

2️⃣ Mint

Peppermint and spearmint are fantastic natural insect repellents. Toss some fresh leaves into the coop or scratch area to keep mites and flies at bay.

3️⃣ Rosemary

Loaded with antioxidants, rosemary supports immune health and helps fight bacteria. You can add chopped rosemary to their feed or hang fresh sprigs in the coop.

4️⃣ Thyme

Thyme is a powerful natural antiseptic and can help with respiratory health. Sprinkle dried thyme leaves in bedding or mix some into feed.

5️⃣ Oregano

Known for its strong antibacterial and antiviral properties, oregano can boost your flock’s immune system. Dried oregano leaves can be added to feed or used as a coop freshener.

6️⃣ Garlic

A natural antibiotic and parasite deterrent, garlic can be minced and added sparingly to feed. Just be careful not to overdo it—too much garlic can be strong for hens.

7️⃣ Turmeric

This vibrant spice has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Adding a small pinch of turmeric to your chickens’ feed can support joint health and overall vitality.

How to Use Herbs & Spices Safely

• Fresh vs Dried: Fresh herbs can be added directly to the coop or scattered for the hens to peck. Dried herbs and spices can be mixed into their feed in small amounts (usually 1–2 teaspoons per kilo of feed).

• Avoid Overdoing It: Too much of any herb or spice can upset your chickens’ digestion or cause other issues. Introduce slowly and observe your birds.

• Herbal Dust Baths: Add dried herbs like lavender, mint, or thyme to a dust bath box to help chickens naturally fend off parasites.

• Grow Your Own: Many of these herbs are easy to grow in pots or garden beds—making fresh supplies cheap and convenient!

Bonus: Herbs to Avoid

While many herbs are beneficial, some can be toxic to chickens in large amounts, such as:

• Avocado leaves and pits

• Rhubarb leaves

• Tomato leaves

• Potato leaves

Always do a quick check before introducing a new plant!

🐓 Final Thoughts

Herbs and spices aren’t just for cooking—they’re a natural way to support your flock’s health, reduce chemical use, and keep your chickens happy and thriving. Whether you sprinkle oregano into their feed, hang fresh lavender in the coop, or provide a dust bath infused with thyme, nature has plenty of gifts to share with your feathered friends.

We’re here to help you raise healthy, happy hens the natural way.

– The Chook Manor Team 🌿🐓