Feeding Chickens Hops May Increase Health

A recent study shows that feeding hops to chickens could prevent pathogenic bacteria from taking over in your chicken's gut. Apparently the bitter acid Lupulone, which is found in hops flowers, shows to be a viable option to antibiotic treatment for chickens.

From Grit.com:

Even if you raise chickens for eggs, or carefully dress your own, I suspect that you can keep your flock a bit healthier by adding some fresh or dried hops to their diet. Why not plant a vine or two this year and give it a try?

Check out the USDA’s ARS website for more information on the antimicrobial characteristics of hops.  Link to full article

Well, it turns out that Mark and I were already planning to put some hops in our yard this year.  Now I will be sure to get some hops rhizomes in the ground this spring, not only for brewing but also as a supplement to our flock. 

Not sure where to find hops rhizomes?  Try Freshops.com (you can't order until March) or Thymegarden.com (you can order now).