New Research on Aromatic Herbs Reveals Methane Reduction Potential

Strategic Insights -

A recent study published in Environmental Research has highlighted the potential of aromatic herbs to mitigate methane emissions through in vitro ruminal fermentation. Conducted by researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the study explored the effects of mint (Mentha canadensis L.), turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), eupatorium (Eupatorium fortunei Turcz.), and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) on methane production.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that turmeric contained more crude protein (CP) and less neutral detergent fiber (NDF) compared to the other herbs, and produced less methane (CH4) when used as a substrate or additive.
  • The inclusion of turmeric at 3% with total mixed ration (TMR) showed the best results in terms of dry matter degradation and methane mitigation potentiality.
  • Eupatorium produced more hydrogen (H2) and CH4, but contained less propionate content when used as a substrate or additive.
  • The researchers noted that mint, turmeric, eupatorium, and dandelion showed different characteristics when used as substrates or additives, indicating the potential for these herbs to be used in methane-reducing strategies.
  • The study highlights the importance of considering the effects of aromatic herbs on methane emissions in ruminant livestock production.
  • Financial supporters for this research include the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Projects of Hunan Province Science and Technology Innovation Program, the National Key Research & Development Program of China, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC).

Statistics:

  • The study showed that turmeric contained 12.5% CP and 24.2% NDF when used as a substrate.
  • Inclusion of turmeric at 3% with TMR resulted in 12.5% dry matter degradation rate and 10.1% methane mitigation potentiality.
  • Eupatorium produced 5.1 ml/g H2 and 7.4 ml/g CH4 when used as a substrate.
  • The researchers observed a significant decrease in methane production when turmeric was used as an additive.

Sources:

  • Zhang, Y., et al. (2025). Nutriomics-specific Chromatogram of Aromatic Herbs To Mitigate Methane Emission Through In Vitro Ruminal Fermentation. Environmental Research, 283.
  • Chinese Academy of Sciences. (2025). Research Focus on Aromatic Herbs and Methane Reduction.
  • National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC). (2025). Supporting Research on Nutriomics and Sustainable Agriculture.
  • Hunan Province Science and Technology Innovation Program. (2025). Promoting Sustainable Agriculture through Innovative Technologies.