Researchers tested whether a powder made from dendrobium nobile (a type of orchid plant) could help older hens stay healthy and productive. They gave 90 hens either regular food or regular food mixed with the plant powder for several weeks. The hens that got the plant powder laid more eggs and had better protection against cell damage. The study suggests this natural supplement might help aging hens maintain their egg production by boosting their body’s natural defense systems.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether adding dendrobium nobile powder to chicken feed could help older hens lay more eggs and stay healthier
  • Who participated: 90 white hens that were 56 weeks old (considered ’late laying’ age for chickens). Half got regular feed, and half got feed mixed with 0.25% dendrobium powder
  • Key finding: Hens eating the plant powder laid more eggs and had stronger natural defenses against cell damage. Their bodies showed better protection against harmful molecules called free radicals
  • What it means for you: This research suggests natural plant supplements might help maintain egg production in aging hens, though more research in different settings is needed before widespread use

The Research Details

Scientists divided 90 hens into two equal groups. One group ate normal chicken feed (the control group), while the other group ate the same feed with dendrobium nobile powder added (0.25% by weight). The study lasted several weeks during the hens’ late laying period, which is when egg production naturally starts to decline. The researchers measured egg production, collected blood samples to check health markers, and examined ovary tissue to understand how the plant powder affected the hens at a cellular level.

The researchers looked at multiple indicators of health and productivity. They measured egg-laying rates and total eggs produced. They also tested blood samples for specific proteins and enzymes that show how well the body’s natural defense system is working. Additionally, they examined genetic activity in ovary tissue and used advanced technology to identify hundreds of different molecules in the ovaries to understand exactly how the plant powder was working.

This research approach is important because it looks at the problem from multiple angles. Rather than just counting eggs, the scientists investigated the biological mechanisms—the ‘why’ behind the results. By examining blood markers, genetic activity, and metabolic patterns, they could explain how the plant powder actually helps hens stay productive as they age. This comprehensive approach makes the findings more reliable and helps scientists understand whether similar supplements might work in other situations.

This study was conducted in a controlled laboratory setting with a clear comparison between two groups, which is a solid research design. The researchers measured multiple outcomes rather than relying on just one measure, which strengthens their conclusions. However, the study only included one type of hen breed and was conducted in one location, so results might differ in other settings. The sample size of 90 hens is reasonable for this type of animal research. The study was published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, meaning other experts reviewed the work before publication.

What the Results Show

Hens that received the dendrobium nobile powder laid significantly more eggs compared to the control group. The powder appeared to work by boosting the hens’ natural antioxidant system—think of antioxidants as the body’s cleanup crew that removes harmful waste products from cells. The researchers found that three important protective enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase) were more active in hens eating the supplement.

The plant powder also affected genes related to egg production. Specifically, it increased levels of a hormone called follicle stimulating hormone and activated genes that help eggs develop properly. This suggests the supplement works by helping the reproductive system function better during aging.

When scientists examined the ovaries in detail, they found that the plant powder changed the activity of genes in a protective pathway called the Nrf2 signaling pathway. This pathway is like a master switch that turns on the body’s defense systems. By activating this pathway, the supplement helped protect ovary cells from oxidative stress—damage caused by harmful molecules that accumulate with age.

Advanced analysis identified 94 different molecules that changed in the ovaries of hens eating the supplement. Of these, 55 molecules increased and 39 decreased. These changes primarily affected three biological pathways: fatty acid breakdown, protein building, and unsaturated fat production. These pathways are important for energy production and cell health, suggesting the supplement helps hens maintain better overall metabolic function during their later laying years.

This study builds on previous research showing that natural plant compounds can support animal health and productivity. Dendrobium orchids have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and recent studies have shown they contain compounds with antioxidant properties. This research is among the first to systematically test whether these properties can help maintain egg production in aging hens. The findings align with other studies showing that antioxidant support becomes increasingly important as animals age.

This study was conducted with only one breed of hen in a controlled laboratory setting, so results might differ with other breeds or in farm environments. The study lasted several weeks, so we don’t know if the benefits continue long-term or if hens eventually adapt to the supplement. The researchers didn’t test different doses of the powder, so we don’t know if higher or lower amounts might work better. Additionally, this research was done in hens, so we cannot assume the same results would occur in other animals or in humans without further testing.

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, dendrobium nobile powder appears promising as a supplement to support egg production in aging hens (moderate confidence level). The evidence suggests it works through multiple biological pathways to protect cells and support reproductive function. However, more research is needed in different farm settings and with different hen breeds before making widespread recommendations. If considering this supplement, consult with a veterinarian or poultry nutritionist to determine appropriate dosing and application.

This research is most relevant to poultry farmers managing flocks of older hens where egg production is declining. It may be of interest to researchers studying natural supplements for animal agriculture and to those interested in sustainable farming practices. This research does not directly apply to human nutrition, though it contributes to our understanding of how plant compounds support aging in living organisms.

Based on this study, changes in egg production appeared within the duration of the experiment (several weeks). However, the exact timeline for seeing benefits in a farm setting may vary depending on the hens’ age, health status, and environmental conditions. Farmers should expect to monitor results over at least 4-6 weeks to fairly assess whether the supplement is working for their flock.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track daily or weekly egg production numbers (total eggs and percentage of hens laying) before and after introducing the supplement. Record the date started, dosage used, and any changes in egg quality (size, shell strength, color)
  • For poultry farmers: Implement the supplement at 0.25% of feed weight and monitor egg production metrics weekly. Document any changes in hen behavior, health, or feed consumption to identify whether the supplement is working for your specific flock
  • Establish a baseline of egg production for 2-3 weeks before starting the supplement. Continue tracking weekly for at least 8-12 weeks after introduction. Compare production rates, note any changes in egg quality, and track feed costs versus increased egg production to determine if the supplement is economically beneficial for your operation

This research was conducted in controlled laboratory conditions with a specific breed of chicken and may not apply to all farming situations or environments. The study was relatively short-term, so long-term effects are unknown. Before implementing dendrobium nobile supplementation in a commercial poultry operation, consult with a veterinarian or poultry nutritionist to ensure it is appropriate for your flock and complies with any relevant regulations. This research does not constitute medical or veterinary advice. Individual results may vary based on breed, age, health status, and environmental conditions.