Abstract

POLIN RAYGOZA, Laura Alicia; MURO REYES, Alberto  and  DIAZ GARCIA, Luis Humberto. Ruminal fermentation modification and methanogenesis mitigation by essential oils from plants: Review. Rev. mex. de cienc. pecuarias [online]. 2014, vol.5, n.1, pp.25-47. ISSN 2448-6698.

Methane production in ruminant livestock systems has been controlled traditionally through antibiotic use. However, these have been banned in Europe since 2006 and will soon be banned on other continents. In response, research has focused on identifying synthetic and natural compounds with antimicrobial properties that do not foster microorganism resistance. Plant secondary components such as essential oils are receiving increasing attention. To date, only 70 essential oils and their main active principles have been tested to determine their effect on ruminal fermentation modification and/or methane mitigation. Most studies addressing these phenomena have been in vitro, and some report significant modification and/or mitigation action. In vivo studies including productive parameters have only recently been carried out. An overview is done of in vitro and in vivo research into the effects of essential oils on the main parameters of ruminal fermentation, methane mitigation, production performance and immune condition, and suggestions made for future research.

Keywords : Essential oils; Methane; Ruminants.