If herbs are served regularly, their properties can offer your bird a lifetime of better health. Certain herbs should be used only with the guidance of a health professional, but some herbs, such as the ones listed above can be added to a diet of a variety of other fresh foods for the nutritional value they possess. Whole grains are excellent sources of protein, carbohydrates, unsaturated fatty acids, B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, iron, zinc, magnesium, and fiber. Grains that have been refined, are far less nutritious with many nutrients removed and very few added back. Legumes are wonderful sources of protein, carbohydrates, B-complex vitamins, vitamin C and minerals.
Legumes contain very little fat and no cholesterol.
Peas are a very good source of vitamin A and B-complex vitamins. They are rich in iron, potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. They are lower in protein than legumes, but serving them with grains creates a more complete protein meal for your birds. Pumpkin seeds and peanuts are the highest in protein. Since the protein in seeds is incomplete it is important to complement them with grains or legumes to provide a quality protein meal.