Review article
https://doi.org/10.31727/m.28.4.4
Potential for the use of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) as a phytogenic supplement in the feeding of domestic animals
Dalida Galović
; Sveučilište J. J. Strossmayera, Fakultet agrobiotehničkih znanosti Osijek, Osijek, Hrvatska
*
Ivana Prakatur
; Sveučilište J. J. Strossmayera, Fakultet agrobiotehničkih znanosti Osijek, Osijek, Hrvatska
Vladimir Margeta
; Sveučilište J. J. Strossmayera, Fakultet agrobiotehničkih znanosti Osijek, Osijek, Hrvatska
Danijela Samac
orcid.org/0000-0001-9277-3710
; Sveučilište J. J. Strossmayera, Fakultet agrobiotehničkih znanosti Osijek, Osijek, Hrvatska
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Modern livestock production faces challenges in finding alternative feed sources that simultaneously promote growth and improve animal health status. Due to increasingly strict regulations on antibiotic use and growing concerns over the development of antimicrobial resistance, research is focused on discovering natural bioactive substances. In recent years, okra has attracted the attention of the scientific community as a potential natural phytobiotic. Although primarily cultivated for its young pods for human consumption, okra by-products (leaves, stems, and overripe pods) represent an unutilized resource in livestock nutrition. Phytogenic feed additives improve appetite and feed intake, stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, activate antioxidants, and possess antibacterial and antiviral properties that enhance the immune response. The nutritional value of okra varies significantly depending on the morphological part of the plant. While fresh pods provide low energy intake alongside a high concentration of soluble dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, mature seeds represent the most concentrated source of nutrients. Chemical analyses confirm that seeds contain up to 21% protein and 14% fat, with a favorable amino acid profile. Okra leaves, with a protein content of around 15-20% in dry matter, can serve as a high-quality substitute for a portion of protein feeds in ruminant and rabbit diets. Particular importance is attributed to okra mucilage, which consists of complex acidic polysaccharides. These compounds act as natural prebiotics. Okra polysaccharides modify the intestinal microflora by promoting the growth of beneficial lactic acid bacteria, while simultaneously inhibiting the colonization of pathogens such as Escherichia coli. Earlier studies indicate that low doses of okra powder significantly improve meat quality and intestinal microflora health, while exerting hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects in livestock. The addition of okra leaf meal to laying hen diets results in better egg yolk pigmentation and increased eggshell thickness. One of the most important findings is the hypolipidemic effect, as regular consumption of okra-based supplements leads to a reduction in egg cholesterol levels, making them nutritionally more desirable for human consumption, which positions okra as a promising phytogenic additive. Okra plants can tolerate prolonged periods of direct sunlight (being resistant to moisture, drought, and heat) and can adapt to various soils, which could make okra a key component of sustainable feeding systems in the future.
Keywords
phytogenic supplement; okra; domestic animal nutrition
Hrčak ID:
349758
URI
Publication date:
25.7.2026.
croatian german spanish italian
Visits: 0 *