China Dairy ›› 2026, Vol. 0 ›› Issue (7): 40-47.doi: 10.12377/1671-4393.26.07.06

• PLANT EXTRACTS AND HEALTHY FARMING • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Review on the Application Effects and Research of Oregano Essential Oil in Ruminant Production

MA Zhiqiang1, MA Rongzheng2, JIANG Shiyu3, WANG Haiyan4, HAN Chaoyuan1, DU Haoran3, CHU Ying3*   

  1. 1. Chifeng Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Technology Extension Center,Chifeng Inner Mongolia 024000;
    2. Shuanghou Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Station of Yinan County,Linyi Shandong 276300;
    3. Zhalantun Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center,Hulunbuir Inner Mongolia 162650;
    4. Balin Right Banner Comprehensive Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Law Enforcement Brigade of Chifeng City,Chifeng Inner Mongolia 025150
  • Published:2026-08-19

Abstract: The escalating issue of antibiotic resistance has compelled the global livestock industry to accelerate the search for safe and natural alternative feed additives. Oregano essential oil (OEO),extracted from the oregano plant,possesses multiple biological functions,including antibacterial,anti-inflammatory,antioxidant,and growth-promoting activities,primarily attributed to its main active components,carvacrol and thymol. To date,research on OEO in ruminant production has achieved preliminary results;however,there remains academic disagreement regarding its effects on ruminal microecology,methanogenesis,nutrient utilization,and animal health. The existing literature is predominantly based on in vitro experiments and short-term feeding trials,with insufficient data on long-term feeding effects,tissue residue risks,and dose-response relationships. This paper systematically reviewed recent domestic and international research reports on the application of OEO in ruminants such as cattle and sheep,covering major aspects including ruminal fermentation regulation,pathogen inhibition,immune response modulation,and meat and milk quality improvement,while also discussing its potential adverse effects. On this basis,this review provided a theoretical reference for the rational use of OEO as an antibiotic alternative in green ruminant production.

Key words: oregano essential oil, ruminants, ruminal fermentation, antibacterial activity, production performance, immunomodulation

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