Angels4 Posted January 2, 2010 Share Posted January 2, 2010 I found this on http://www.moonlightmileherbs.com and am going to give it a try. I know it seems like alot of work but with the lack of greens available because of the snow it is worth it to keep the girls warm and healthy. Quote: Alfalfa (or Nettle can be subsituted) is an excellent herb to give to our birds during the winter months. Especially in the north, where greens are non-existant unless you buy them, and greens are probably limited in the south as well. You can give alfalfa hay as a supplement during the winter, but I feel they don't eat enough of it to make a big enough boost to their system. But tea in their water will give them a concentrated amount that I know they will get. Particularly during harsh weather, this tea helps them tremendously with what the cold weather saps from their energy trying to stay warm. It will boost protein levels which will convert into accessible energy to raise body temps. And, they need the "greens" for their diet to stay balanced. Even once a month it will be of great benefit for your poultry. Visit the alfalfa link on the the herbs page for more detailed benefits of alfalfa. One flake of hay will yield about 3 gallons of tea. Put a flake in a bag and then close it, then squish it around to break it up so I can pack it into a pot. Then take a big pot and stuff it full with the hay. Then fill the pot with water up to about 1 inch from the brim. Bring to a boil and let it gently simmer for one hour. Then use a collander and strain. When done, pour into gallon jugs to mix into waterers. The ratio mix is 1 gallon of tea and 1 gallon or so of water. You will see a noticeable increase in alertness and energy levels. It's good stuff! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Redwing Posted January 2, 2010 Share Posted January 2, 2010 That sounds interesting Mark, I have been trying to source alfalfa meal locally as I have heard it is good for chickens but it seems far less popular here than in the U.S I can get alfalfa fibre sold for horses so may try your tea method instead Thanks Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Christian Posted January 3, 2010 Share Posted January 3, 2010 I have heard of a similar 'tonic' with nettles stewed as a tea Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
