Boosting Immunity: Herbs, Supplements & Seasonal Foods for Fall

Immune-Boosting Herbs for Chickens

Adding fresh or dried herbs to your chickens’ diet (or nesting boxes) can do wonders for their health — and their coop will smell amazing, too.

Oregano: Known as a natural antibiotic and antiviral. Add a pinch of dried oregano to their feed or mix fresh leaves into treats.
Garlic: Supports respiratory health and boosts immune response. You can mix a small clove of crushed garlic into a gallon of water once or twice a week.
Thyme: Helps fight respiratory issues common in cooler months. Sprinkle a little into feed or hang a bundle in the coop.
Parsley: A vitamin-rich green that supports blood health and egg production — great to offer fresh.
Sage & Rosemary: Naturally antibacterial and aromatic. Perfect for nesting boxes or dust baths to deter pests.

As daylight decreases and your hens may slow or stop laying, keeping up with nutrition is key. Consider adding:

Probiotics: These help maintain gut health — the cornerstone of strong immunity. You can find them in powdered supplements or natural sources like fermented feed or plain yogurt (in moderation).
AciMate: can help balance pH, boost digestion, and prevent harmful bacteria growth.
Electrolytes & Vitamins: Especially helpful during molting or weather changes. Look for poultry-specific mixes that include vitamins A, D, and E.
High-Protein Feeds or Treats: Feathers are made of protein, so during molt your chickens need extra! Add mealworms, black soldier fly larvae, or scrambled eggs as a boost. For a nutrias and high-quality protein packed treat, try our Organic Chicken Scratch!

One of the best things about fall? Plenty of healthy scraps and seasonal produce your chickens will love.

Pumpkin: A fall favorite! It’s full of vitamins and can support gut health. Serve it raw or baked (no seeds needed, despite old worming myths).
Squash & Zucchini: Soft, hydrating, and packed with nutrients.
Apples: Offer sliced (no seeds!) for a sweet treat rich in antioxidants.
Kale, Spinach, and Cabbage: Great greens for foraging or hanging in the run for enrichment.
Sunflower Seeds: High in healthy fats and protein — perfect for feather regrowth.

A strong immune system starts with consistency. Try this simple weekly routine:

Monday: Add garlic water or AciMate to their drinking water.
Tuesday: Offer a handful of high-protein snacks (like dried mealworms or our Organic Chicken Scratch).
Wednesday: Mix herbs (oregano, thyme, parsley) into feed.
Thursday: Give a seasonal treat like pumpkin or greens.
Friday: Refresh bedding and sprinkle nesting herbs for a healthy coop environment.

This rhythm helps balance nutrition, keeps your flock engaged, and naturally strengthens their immunity.