For nearly every ailment or problem that a bird experiences, there is an herb, a vitamin, a mineral, a fatty acid, an enzyme, an antioxidant, a glandular, a flower essence, or a homeopathic remedy that can assist in the amelioration of the discomfort. For those of you who are eager to learn more about these amazing natural substances, today I will tell you about several of the most useful antioxidants. There are more than 500 carotenes that have been identified so far. Vitamin A can be dangerous when taken in high doses over long periods of time. Please be sure you have professional assistance prior to offering your bird vitamin A in the retinol and synthetic forms.
Beta carotene is found in most orange, red, green, and yellow vegetables and fruits.
Carotene is known to protect the eyes, skin, liver and lung tissue from damage and to boost the immune system. This healing substance is another carotenoid that is believed to be an even more powerful antioxidant than beta carotene. Lycopene acts as an anticancer agent and is found in large quantities in tomatoes and red grapefruit. It is also available in the supplement form to add to food. For those birds that have cancer, I recommend that this substance be used both from the food source and a lycopene supplement.