And we’re back with another harvest post for your chickens’ diet. Today, we’re going to focus on herbs.
You may be tempted to grab a handful of an overgrown herb and toss it in the coup, but before you do, check the list below to see if it is safe. Your hens will react to different herbs in different ways. While most are safe, there are some herbs that can harm your beloved backyard chickens. Let’s keep those ladies and roosters safe, healthy, and well-fed.
Benefits of Herbs in a Chicken’s Diet
Herbs can be a game-changer when it comes to your chickens’ health and happiness. Keep in mind that eating herbs can change the taste of their eggs. Here are some key benefits of including herbs in their diet:
- Enhanced Immunity: Many herbs have natural immune-boosting properties, helping your chickens resist common diseases.
- Improved Digestion: Certain herbs aid in digestion and can alleviate digestive issues in your flock.
- Stress Reduction: Herbs like lavender and lemon balm can have calming effects on chickens, reducing stress and promoting well-being.
- Enhanced Egg Quality: Some herbs can impart a pleasant flavor to eggs, making them even more enjoyable.
- Insect Repellent: Herbs like oregano and thyme have natural insect-repelling properties, keeping pests at bay in the coop.
What Herbs NOT to Feed Your Chickens and Why
While herbs can be beneficial, it’s essential to know which ones to avoid. Here are some herbs that should not be included in your chickens’ diet and the reasons why:
- Foxglove: Foxglove contains toxic compounds that can be lethal to chickens. Avoid it entirely.
- Yew: Yew is highly toxic and should be kept far away from your flock.
- Rhubarb Leaves: While the stalks are safe, rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid, which is harmful to chickens.
- Azalea: Azaleas contain grayanotoxin, which can cause severe health issues if ingested by chickens.
- Jimsonweed: Jimsonweed is a poisonous plant that poses a severe threat to chickens.
Q&A: Can Chickens Eat These Herbs?
Let’s delve into some common herbs one by one to determine whether chickens can safely enjoy them:
Can chickens eat cilantro?
Yes, chickens can eat cilantro. It’s safe and can provide a refreshing flavor to their diet.
Can chickens eat parsley?
Yes, chickens can eat parsley. It’s safe and contains essential vitamins.
Can chickens eat oregano?
Yes, chickens can eat oregano. It’s not only safe but also offers immune-boosting benefits.
Can chickens eat basil?
Yes, chickens can eat basil. It’s a flavorful herb that can be a healthy addition to their diet.
Can chickens eat rosemary?
Yes, chickens can eat rosemary. It’s safe and can serve as a natural insect repellent.
Can chickens eat lavender?
Yes, chickens can eat lavender, but in moderation. It has calming properties that can benefit your flock.
Can chickens eat dill?
Yes, chickens can eat dill. It’s safe and can add a unique taste to their food.
Can chickens eat thyme?
Yes, chickens can eat thyme. It’s safe and offers digestive benefits.
Can chickens eat mint?
Yes, chickens can eat mint. It’s safe and can help alleviate stress.
Can chickens eat lemon balm?
Yes, chickens can eat lemon balm. It’s safe and has a calming effect.
Can chickens eat marjoram?
Yes, chickens can eat marjoram. It’s safe and can enhance the flavor of their eggs.
Incorporating herbs into your chickens’ diet can be a rewarding endeavor, offering a range of benefits from improved health to tastier eggs. However, it’s essential to be cautious about which herbs you provide and to do so in moderation. Your chickens will thank you for the flavorful and nutritious additions to their menu!
If you have questions about kitchen foods that are safe to feed your chickens, fruits, vegetables, meats, grains, herbs, bugs, or what NOT to feed your chickens, check out one of our previous posts.
Happy chicken keeping!