Blog by Peter Wilson

You may be asking yourself what garlic, oregano, or Apple Cider Vinegar have to do with chickens and their water. Read on to learn more.

Chickens require access to clean water. I have learned from experience to place the water off the ground to be kept clear of their scratching dust and low enough for the chickens to reach. When I was new to chicken keeping, I did my share of research on natural chicken keeping. Below is a good explanation of the benefits of each supplement I mentioned above.

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Many backyard chicken keepers explore natural ways to support the health of their flocks, and the addition of simple kitchen staples like garlic, oregano, and apple cider vinegar to drinking water has become a popular topic. Each of these ingredients is said to offer unique benefits:

Garlic: Often praised for its antimicrobial properties, garlic can be crushed and a small amount added to the water to help support immune function and ward off certain pathogens. Some believe it also acts as a gentle internal parasite deterrent.

Oregano: Widely recognized for its natural antibiotic qualities, oregano—whether as dried flakes, fresh leaves, or an oil extract—can be infused in water to promote digestive health and fortify chickens against common respiratory or intestinal issues.

Apple Cider Vinegar: known for its ability to acidify water slightly, just a tablespoon per gallon can help create an environment less hospitable to harmful bacteria, while also supporting gut health and providing trace minerals.

Always provide fresh, clean water daily and introduce new supplements gradually, observing your flock for any changes.  When I get my little peeps, I introduce the garden in the water-just a little bit. As they grow, more is added to the water.

In addition, changing the water daily prevents bacteria and algae from building up, which can affect both the taste and safety of the water.