Impact of Thymus Vulgaris on the Embryonic Development of Chicken Eggs

Abstract

Aims/Objective: The study aims to investigate the effects of Thymus vulgaris (common thyme) extract at specific stages of embryonic development during ontogenesis and to evaluate the benefits or potential consequences of its dosage on macroscopic and histopathological changes. Study Design: This experimental study involved administering a standardized dose of thyme, a herbal supplement with healing properties, to chicken eggs at various stages of incubation, and comparing the outcomes with those of untreated control eggs. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Institute of Ecology and Technology, University of Tetovo, located in the Polog region, over a period of six months spanning 2023 and 2024. Methodology: Fertilized chicken eggs were assigned to either a control group or an experimental group. The experimental group received 0.5 ml of thyme infusion at predetermined stages of incubation. The eggs were incubated under controlled conditions (37.5°C, 70% humidity). Embryonic development was monitored and assessed on 1, 8, 14, and 21 days old, with particular attention to organ differentiation, vascularization, and overall activity. Post-hatching, the chicks were examined for macroscopic and histopathological changes. Results: The application of thyme extract positively influenced embryonic development at all stages of incubation. By the eighth day, treated embryos demonstrated enhanced organ differentiation, with notable improvements in vascularization and amniotic membrane development compared to the control group. On the fourteenth day, further advancements were observed in the differentiation of extremities and internal organs in treated embryos. By the twenty-first day, treated embryos exhibited increased activity and accelerated developmental milestones, achieving results comparable to or exceeding those of the control group. Conclusions: The administration of 0.5 ml of Thymus vulgaris herbal extract supports and potentially enhances normal embryonic development in chicken eggs. These findings suggest that thyme extract could be a viable natural additive in poultry incubation, with potential benefits for embryo health and development. This study underscores the promising applications of thyme extract in organic poultry production.