Research shows that adding elaeagnus berry powder and ginger powder to chicken feed significantly improves egg production and feed efficiency in aging laying hens. According to Gram Research analysis of this 2026 study with 144 hens, birds receiving the plant powder supplements laid more eggs while using less feed, with the strongest benefits appearing in weeks 97 to 100. The supplements also enhanced gut health and antioxidant protection.
Researchers tested whether two natural plant powders could help aging laying hens stay productive and healthy. They gave 144 chickens either a regular diet or diets containing elaeagnus (a berry plant) powder, ginger powder, or both for eight weeks. The hens that received the plant powders laid more eggs, needed less feed to produce those eggs, and showed signs of better gut health and stronger immune systems. This research suggests that natural supplements might help keep older chickens productive on farms.
Key Statistics
A 2026 research study of 144 laying hens found that dietary supplementation with elaeagnus powder and ginger powder increased egg production and reduced feed conversion ratio during weeks 97 to 100 of the hens’ lives compared to control diets.
In a 2026 study of 144 aging laying hens, supplementation with elaeagnus and ginger powders increased intestinal villus height, width, and surface area while boosting the antioxidant enzyme SOD and reducing cellular damage marker MDA.
Research on 144 laying hens published in 2026 showed that elaeagnus powder supplementation increased pancreas weight and egg specific gravity while decreasing serum triglycerides, indicating improved metabolic function in aging birds.
The Quick Take
- What they studied: Whether adding elaeagnus berry powder and ginger powder to chicken feed could improve egg production, egg quality, and overall health in older laying hens
- Who participated: 144 Lohmann LSL-Lite laying hens that were 92 weeks old (very old for chickens). The birds were divided into four groups of 36 hens each, with six smaller groups within each treatment
- Key finding: Hens fed the plant powder supplements laid more eggs and needed less feed to produce them compared to hens on regular feed. The combination of both powders showed the strongest benefits, particularly in weeks 97 to 100 of the study
- What it means for you: If you raise chickens or work in poultry farming, natural plant supplements may help keep older hens productive longer. However, this research was done on one specific chicken breed, so results may differ with other types of chickens
The Research Details
Scientists divided 144 older laying hens into four equal groups. One group ate regular feed with no additions. The second group received feed mixed with elaeagnus powder at 7.5 grams per kilogram of feed. The third group got ginger powder at 5 grams per kilogram. The fourth group received both powders combined. All groups ate their assigned diets for eight weeks while researchers tracked egg production, feed use, and health markers.
The researchers measured many outcomes including how many eggs each hen laid, the quality of those eggs, how much feed was needed per egg produced, and internal health markers. They also examined the intestines under a microscope to see if the plant powders affected gut structure. Blood samples were tested for various health indicators including antioxidant levels and fat content.
This type of study design, called a completely randomized design, helps ensure that differences between groups come from the diet changes rather than other factors. By having multiple replicate groups, the researchers could confirm their findings were consistent and not due to chance.
Understanding how natural supplements affect aging chickens matters because laying hens naturally become less productive as they age. If plant powders can extend productive years, farms could keep hens longer before replacement, potentially reducing costs and waste. Additionally, this research explores natural alternatives to synthetic additives, which many consumers prefer
This study used a controlled experimental design with multiple replicate groups, which strengthens the reliability of findings. The researchers measured many different outcomes rather than just one, providing a comprehensive picture. However, the study was conducted on only one chicken breed, so results may not apply equally to all laying hen types. The eight-week study period is relatively short for assessing long-term effects
What the Results Show
During the final weeks of the study (weeks 97 to 100), hens receiving the plant powder supplements laid significantly more eggs than control hens. These supplemented hens also needed less feed to produce each egg, meaning they converted feed to eggs more efficiently. The combination of both elaeagnus and ginger powders together produced the strongest improvements in egg production and feed efficiency.
When examining egg quality, hens receiving elaeagnus powder produced eggs with higher specific gravity, a measure of egg density and quality. The yolk percentage, or the proportion of yolk to total egg, decreased slightly with elaeagnus supplementation. The pancreas, an organ important for digestion, was heavier in hens receiving elaeagnus powder.
Gut health improvements were particularly notable. Hens receiving either or both plant powders showed taller and wider intestinal villi, the tiny finger-like structures that absorb nutrients. The surface area of these villi also increased, meaning more area available for nutrient absorption. These changes suggest the supplements improved the hens’ ability to extract nutrition from their feed.
Blood tests revealed important health improvements. Hens receiving the plant powders showed higher levels of SOD, an enzyme that protects cells from damage. They also had lower levels of MDA, a marker of cellular damage. This combination suggests the supplements boosted the hens’ natural antioxidant defenses. Triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood, decreased in hens receiving elaeagnus powder, indicating improved fat metabolism
According to Gram Research analysis, these findings align with previous studies showing that ginger and elaeagnus have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Earlier research suggested these plants could improve gut health in various animals, and this study confirms similar benefits in aging laying hens. The interaction between the two powders producing stronger effects than either alone is a novel finding that suggests synergistic benefits
This study focused on only one chicken breed, so results may not apply to other laying hen types. The eight-week duration is relatively short for assessing whether benefits persist long-term. The study did not compare these supplements to other potential treatments or additives. Additionally, the research was conducted in a controlled farm setting, so real-world results on different farms might vary based on other management factors
The Bottom Line
If you raise laying hens, consider supplementing feed with elaeagnus and ginger powders at the tested levels (7.5 grams elaeagnus and 5 grams ginger per kilogram of feed) to potentially improve egg production and gut health in aging birds. This recommendation has moderate confidence based on this single study. Consult with a poultry nutritionist before making changes to ensure the supplements work with your specific feed and management system
Poultry farmers and backyard chicken keepers with aging laying hens should find this research relevant. Commercial egg producers might consider these supplements as a way to extend productive years in their flocks. Pet chicken owners wanting to maintain egg production in older birds could also benefit. This research is less relevant for meat chicken producers or those raising young laying hens
Based on this study, improvements in egg production and feed efficiency appeared within the eight-week study period, with the strongest effects in weeks 97 to 100. Expect to see changes in egg production within 4 to 8 weeks of starting supplementation. Gut health improvements likely develop gradually over several weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ginger and elaeagnus powder help older chickens lay more eggs?
Yes. A 2026 study of 144 laying hens found that supplementing feed with elaeagnus and ginger powders increased egg production and improved feed efficiency, particularly in very old birds (97 to 100 weeks of age). The combination of both powders produced the strongest results.
What does elaeagnus powder do for chicken health?
Elaeagnus powder improved egg quality, increased pancreas weight, and enhanced intestinal structure in laying hens. It also reduced blood triglycerides and boosted antioxidant defenses, suggesting benefits for overall metabolic health in aging birds.
How much ginger and elaeagnus should I add to chicken feed?
The study used 7.5 grams of elaeagnus powder per kilogram of feed and 5 grams of ginger powder per kilogram of feed. These amounts produced the best results when combined. Consult a poultry nutritionist before implementing to ensure proper mixing and compatibility with your specific feed.
How long does it take to see improvements in egg production?
The study observed improvements within eight weeks of supplementation, with the strongest effects appearing in weeks 97 to 100. Expect to see changes in egg production within 4 to 8 weeks of starting the supplements in your flock.
Does this work for all chicken breeds?
This study tested only Lohmann LSL-Lite laying hens, so results may not apply equally to other breeds. Different chicken breeds may respond differently to the supplements. Test on a small group before implementing farm-wide changes.
Want to Apply This Research?
- Track daily egg production per hen and feed consumption weekly. Calculate feed conversion ratio (total feed used divided by total eggs produced) every two weeks to monitor efficiency improvements
- Start supplementing feed with measured amounts of elaeagnus and ginger powders according to the study protocol. Mix powders thoroughly into feed to ensure even distribution. Monitor for any changes in hen behavior or health
- Maintain a weekly log of egg count, egg quality observations, and feed consumption. Monthly, calculate average feed conversion ratio and note any changes in hen appearance or behavior. Compare metrics before and after supplementation began
This research applies specifically to laying hens and should not be interpreted as medical advice for humans or other animals. While the study shows promising results for poultry supplementation, individual results may vary based on breed, management practices, and environmental factors. Consult with a veterinarian or poultry nutritionist before making significant changes to your flock’s diet. This study was conducted on one chicken breed in a controlled setting, so real-world results may differ. Always follow local regulations regarding feed additives and supplements for food-producing animals.
This research translation is published by Gram Research, the science division of Gram, an AI-powered nutrition tracking app.