Introduction
Infectious Bursal Hepatitis (IBH) in poultry is becoming a significant concern for commercial broiler farms. This viral disease, affecting mainly young broilers aged 3 to 6 weeks, often appears alongside other immunosuppressive conditions, leading to high mortality rates and poor flock performance. Managing IBH in poultry requires proactive strategies. This article focuses on natural ways to prevent IBH by using anticoccidial feed additive and herbal supplements.
1. Understanding IBH in Poultry: What It Is and Why It Matters
IBH is caused primarily by adenoviruses, specifically those forming inclusion bodies within infected cells. It typically strikes young, immunocompromised broilers, worsening outcomes in birds already battling infections like Gumboro (IBD) or Chicken Anemia Virus (CAV).
Key Symptoms of IBH:
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Sudden death with little warning.
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Pale, swollen livers with hemorrhages.
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Depressed feed intake and poor weight gain.
IBH significantly affects survival rates, slows growth, and ultimately reduces farm profitability.
2. What Triggers IBH Outbreaks in Poultry Farms
Several underlying issues often set the stage for IBH outbreaks:
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Co-infections: IBH frequently accompanies other diseases such as IBD, CAV, or mycotoxicosis.
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Weak immunity: Excessive antibiotic use and poor gut health increase susceptibility.
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Uncontrolled coccidiosis: Damage to the gut lining allows secondary infections, including IBH, to take hold.
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Environmental stress: Factors like overcrowding, heat stress, and vaccination reactions can intensify disease impact.
Addressing these triggers is key to an effective prevention plan.
3. Role of Anticoccidial Feed Additives in Reducing IBH Risk
Coccidiosis control is an indirect but critical part of IBH management. When the gut lining remains healthy, it forms a strong barrier against secondary viral invasions.
Benefits of anticoccidial feed additive:
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Protect the gut wall, reducing viral entry points.
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Enhance nutrient absorption, keeping birds stronger.
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Lower reliance on antibiotics, reducing resistance risks.
Natural anticoccidials, such as ionophores and herbal alternatives like oregano oil and thyme extract, offer effective options without promoting drug resistance.
4. Herbal Supplements for Liver and Immune Support
Herbal supplements provide critical support by fortifying liver function and enhancing immune resilience.
Effective Herbs Include:
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Phyllanthus niruri (Bhumyamalaki): Supports liver detoxification and protection.
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Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh): Natural antiviral properties and an immune booster.
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Curcumin (Turmeric extract): Powerful anti-inflammatory agent and liver protector.
Using these herbs, along with supplements like poultry vitamins and E Sel Power, helps reduce the severity of IBH symptoms, speeds recovery, and minimizes performance loss.
5. How Our Brand Helps Farmers Prevent IBH in Poultry
At Indianherbs, we specialize in natural poultry health solutions designed to lower IBH risk and strengthen flocks:
✅ Natural Anticoccidial Additives (ZeeCox)
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Formulated to control gut infections and prevent secondary complications like IBH.
✅ Herbal Liver Tonic for Birds (Livoliv DS and Livoliv 250)
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Strengthens liver function, promotes toxin clearance, and enhances natural immunity with support from choline supplement and amino powder blends.
✅ Immunity Enhancers (ImmuPlus)
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Fortified with antioxidants and adaptogens to better prepare birds against IBH triggers and environmental stressors.
Our science-backed products help farmers maintain healthier, more resilient poultry operations.
Conclusion
IBH in poultry is a serious threat, but it can be managed with the right preventive measures. Strengthening gut health, supporting the liver, and building robust immunity using natural feed additives and herbal solutions provides birds with the best defense against IBH. Farmers should move toward trusted, natural strategies for long-term poultry health without depending solely on antibiotics.
