Introduction to Herb Feeding for Budgies and Companion Birds

Birds, such as budgerigars (commonly known as budgies), love to forage and explore their environment. Offering a diverse diet with herbs can stimulate their mental and physical activity, mimic their natural behavior in the wild, and enhance their overall quality of life. Herbs can be an exciting addition to their diet, providing new textures, flavors, and aromas.

However, before introducing herbs to your birds' diet, it's crucial to be aware of what is safe and appropriate for them. Some herbs can be toxic or harmful to birds, so it's important to ensure that you're offering the right ones. Additionally, always wash herbs thoroughly to remove any pesticides or contaminants that could be harmful to your birds.

Herbal Therapy

The use of specific herbs for medicinal purposes dates back thousands of years. Several herbs are mentioned in the Bible, and archeologists have documented herb use back to prehistoric times. Herbs are used around the world, including Western herbs from North America, Ayurvedic herbs from India and traditional Chinese herbs. Approximately 25% of our conventional drugs are derived from plants. Conventional drugs typically contain a single active constituent from the plant (and other synthetic toxins), whereas herbs provide a broader and more balanced effect on the body through the synergistic actions of the herbal components. Herbs are best prescribed to treat the entire individual and not only the clinical signs. Herbal blends and formulations combine the benefits of multiple herbs, which typically produce a synergistic action while minimizing the potentially toxic effects of a single herb. Herbs provide many unique qualities that are very limited in conventional medicine, such as anticancer, antiviral and immunoregulation properties.

Currently, herbal products are not regulated or controlled. Therefore, practitioners and clients must remain cautious in administering a product without evaluating the company and verifying that the active component of the herb or plant actually is in the formulation. Product labels can bear the name of an herb or plant substance as long as some portion of it is present in the formulation, but it does not always imply that the medicinally active constituent is included.

Safe Herbs for Budgies and Birds

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum):
- Nutritional Value: Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.
- Health Benefits: It can aid in digestion and provide a source of essential vitamins for your birds.
- Feeding Tips: Offer fresh parsley in small quantities once a month, as a garnish or mixed with other bird-safe foods.
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum):
- Nutritional Value: Cilantro is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and K, and several essential minerals.
- Health Benefits: It can support the immune system and contribute to overall well-being.
- Feeding Tips: Serve fresh cilantro in moderation, as some birds may find its flavor strong.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum):
- Nutritional Value: Basil contains vitamins A and K, as well as minerals like manganese and magnesium.
- Health Benefits: It has antioxidant properties and can promote healthy digestion.
- Feeding Tips: Provide fresh basil leaves as an occasional treat.
Dill (Anethum graveolens):
- Nutritional Value: Dill is a good source of vitamin C and certain minerals.
- Health Benefits: It can assist with digestion and add variety to your birds' diet.
- Feeding Tips: Offer small amounts of fresh dill occasionally.
Mint (Mentha spp.):
- Nutritional Value: Mint provides vitamins A and C, and it can be a refreshing addition to the diet.
- Health Benefits: It may help soothe upset stomachs and provide a refreshing flavor.
- Feeding Tips: Give mint sparingly, as some birds may dislike its strong aroma.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris):
- Nutritional Value: Thyme contains vitamins C and K, and it has antioxidant properties.
- Health Benefits: It can contribute to overall health and provide variety in taste.
- Feeding Tips: Provide small amounts of fresh thyme as an occasional treat.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare):
- Nutritional Value: Oregano is rich in antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties.
- Health Benefits: It may support the immune system and digestion.
- Feeding Tips: Offer fresh oregano in moderation due to its strong flavor.
Sage (Salvia officinalis):
- Nutritional Value: Sage provides vitamins A and K, and it has antioxidant properties.
- Health Benefits: It can aid in digestion and add variety to the diet.
- Feeding Tips: Serve fresh sage in small quantities.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis):
- Nutritional Value: Rosemary is a source of vitamins C and A, and it has antioxidant properties.
- Health Benefits: It can promote overall well-being and add variety to the diet.
- Feeding Tips: Offer fresh rosemary sparingly, as it has a strong flavor.
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum):
- Nutritional Value: Coriander is rich in vitamins A and K and contains antioxidants.
- Health Benefits: It can aid in digestion and provide essential nutrients.
- Feeding Tips: Give fresh coriander leaves occasionally.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):
- Nutritional Value: Chamomile is known for its calming properties and can help reduce stress.
- Health Benefits: It may soothe birds in stressful situations and support relaxation.
- Feeding Tips: Offer dried chamomile flowers or a weak chamomile tea as an occasional treat.
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis):
- Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and enzymes.
- Health Benefits: Supports digestion and can be used topically for skin issues.
- Feeding Tips: A small amount can be added to drinking water for digestive support, and the gel can be used topically for skin conditions.

Echinacea(Echinacea purpurea):

Nutritional Value: Contains immune-boosting compounds.
Health Benefits: May enhance the immune system.
Feeding Tips: Can be brewed into a tea and added to their drinking water during illness.

Dandelion(Taraxacum officinale):

Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A and potassium.
Health Benefits: Supports liver and kidney health, aids digestion.
Feeding Tips: Fresh dandelion greens can be offered in moderation. Avoid plants treated with pesticides.

Milk Thistle(Sylibum marianum):

Nutritional Value: Contains antioxidants.
Health Benefits: Supports liver function and detoxification. Very important in treating liver ailments.
Feeding Tips: You can find milk thistle supplements specifically formulated for birds.

Calendula (Calendula arvensis):

Nutritional Value: Contains flavonoids and antioxidants.
Health Benefits: Anti-inflammatory and can be used topically for skin issues.
Feeding Tips: Fresh calendula flowers can be added to the bird's diet or made into a tea.

Table 10.2 "Herbal Remedies For Birds" excerpt from Clinical Avian Medicine Vol II Page 349

Introducing Herbs into Your Birds' Diet

When introducing herbs to your budgies or other pet birds, it's essential to start gradually and monitor their reaction. Here are some tips to follow:

Start Slowly: Begin by offering a small amount of the herb, mixed with their regular food. This allows them to get used to the new taste and texture.
Monitor Their Reaction: Observe your birds' behavior and preferences. Some birds may take to herbs right away, while others may be more hesitant. Respect their preferences and don't force them to eat herbs.
Rotate Herbs: Provide a variety of herbs to keep their diet interesting. Rotate the types of herbs you offer to prevent boredom and encourage a well-rounded diet.
Avoid Pesticides: Always wash herbs thoroughly to remove any pesticides or contaminants. Use organic herbs when possible, or grow your own herb garden.
Moderation: Offer herbs in moderation. While herbs can be a healthy addition, they should not replace their primary diet of pellets, seeds, and fresh vegetables.
Consult Your Avian Veterinarian: If you have any concerns about your bird's diet or specific health issues, consult with an avian veterinarian. They can provide guidance tailored to your bird's individual needs.

Potential Health Benefits of Herbs for Birds

Including herbs in your birds' diet can provide various health benefits, depending on the specific herbs used. Here are some potential advantages:

Digestive Support: Many herbs, such as parsley and dill, can aid in digestion and prevent gastrointestinal issues in birds.
Immune System Support: Herbs like oregano, rosemary, and thyme contain antioxidants that can strengthen the immune system, helping your birds stay healthy.
Stress Reduction: Chamomile and lavender are known for their calming properties and can help reduce stress and anxiety in birds, making them more comfortable and relaxed.
Variety in Diet: Herbs add variety to your birds' diet, preventing them from getting bored with the same foods and encouraging a well-rounded nutritional intake.

Precautions and Toxic Herbs

While many herbs are safe and beneficial for birds, some can be toxic and harmful. It's essential to be aware of these toxic herbs and avoid them completely. Here are a few examples of herbs that should not be given to birds:

Datura (Datura spp.): This plant is highly toxic and should be avoided at all costs.
Foxglove (Digitalis spp.): The consumption of foxglove can be fatal to birds.
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis): The entire lily of the valley plant is toxic to birds.
Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna): As the name suggests, deadly nightshade is extremely toxic to birds and should never be offered.
Castor Bean Plant (Ricinus communis): All parts of the castor bean plant are highly toxic to birds.
Yew (Taxus spp.): Yew plants are known to be toxic and should be avoided.
Chives and Onions: These contain compounds that can damage a bird's red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Garlic: Similar to chives and onions, garlic can also be harmful to birds.
Mint: While small amounts of mint are usually okay, excessive consumption can lead to digestive issues.
Lemon and Lime: Citrus fruits can be too acidic for some birds and may cause digestive problems.
Rhubarb: This plant contains oxalic acid, which can be toxic to birds if ingested in large amounts.
Tomato Plants: The leaves and stems of tomato plants contain solanine, which can be toxic to birds.
Azaleas and Rhododendrons: These plants contain toxins that can be harmful to birds.
Daffodils: All parts of the daffodil plant are toxic to birds.
Dieffenbachia: This houseplant, also known as dumb cane, contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation and swelling if ingested.
Philodendron: Similar to dieffenbachia, philodendron contains oxalates that can be irritating.
Any type of indoor decoration plant: Budgies and pet birds should be kept away from indoor plants!!

It's crucial to research each herb thoroughly before introducing it to your birds' diet and to cross-reference multiple reliable sources to ensure its safety.

Avian Homeopathy

Homeopathy as practiced today is credited to Dr. Samuel Hahnemann, a German medical doctor from the mid-1800s. The governing principle of homeopathic medicine is “similia similibus curantur” or “like cures like.” This concept is based on using a very diluted form of a substance to treat a condition or group of symptoms, which in its full strength would cause the same set of symptoms in the patient. These remedies are made from plants, minerals, drugs, viruses, bacteria or animal substances. Homeopathic remedies work on the deep energetic level of the patient to undermine the constitutional cause of the disease, rather than mask its symptoms. Homeopathy is very effective in pet birds.

Birds are highly energetic beings and thus are particularly responsive to energetic therapies. In choosing an appropriate homeopathic remedy, the practitioner must be thoroughly acquainted with the Western medical examination, conventional diagnosis, particular behavior characteristics and situational conditions of the avian patient. The mental and emotional disturbances may be difficult to discern because most bird owners do not fully understand the normal behavior and nature of their pets.

Natural Antibiotics For Budgies

If your bird has an illness that requires treatment in the form of antibiotics then your bird is likely very sick. Using homemade treatments to treat and cure sicknesses that need antibiotics is not recommended. Not giving your bird the correct treatment can kill the bird.

Oregano oil:

Oregano oil is commonly recommended to people who want to treat their bird’s infections, it is a natural antibiotic. This oil also has antifungal properties.

If you do decide to give oregano oil to your bird, you should make sure that you dilute it in a carrier oil, like coconut oil, before you give the oil to your bird.

The ratio of oils should be one teaspoon of carrier oil to one drop of essential oil.

Colloidal silver:

Colloidal silver consists of tiny silver particles in a liquid. This product can be used as a natural antibiotic and it is safe to give to birds.

Colloidal silver can be offered to birds as a drink, it can be offered neat (not diluted) or, it can be diluted with tap water. If you’re creating a colloidal silver and water solution, use 50% tap water and 50% colloidal silver.

If you decide to give colloidal silver to your birds, make sure that you avoid mixing it with BioPlus or Potent Brew. This product can however be mixed with other supplements.

Chlorine Dioxide Solution (0,3 ppm)

Most effective against fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. Read my blog here.

Echinacea:

This is a plant that is commonly made into medicine, it can be taken by humans or by birds.

Echinacea is a natural antibiotic that has both antiviral and immune-stimulating properties, which makes it great at strengthening human and bird immune systems.

This treatment can be given in the bird’s food or in the bird’s water supply, it should be given for 5-7 days.

Conclusion

Incorporating herbs into your budgies' and birds' diet can be an enjoyable and healthful way to diversify their nutrition and improve their overall well-being. By selecting safe and appropriate herbs, you can provide your feathered friends with a range of essential nutrients, support their digestive health, and even help reduce stress and anxiety.

Remember to introduce herbs gradually, monitor your birds' reactions, and provide variety in their diet. While herbs can offer numerous benefits, they should complement their primary diet of high-quality pellets, fresh vegetables, and the occasional treat.

Always be cautious when selecting herbs, avoiding any toxic varieties. When in doubt, consult with an avian veterinarian for personalized guidance to ensure your birds' safety and health.

With proper care and attention, you can create a stimulating and enriching culinary experience for your budgies and birds while promoting their physical and mental well-being.