It sounds like internet logic based on theory rather than evidence. Salicylic acid has an antipyretic effect on chickens.
Which would be a similar logic to a human taking a paracetamol to cope with a hot day better. I'm not sure it works that way.
I don't actually know per se, I'm not a doctor or vet. But I know working in heat..... and ive never heard the one that goes; take a paracetamol for a hot day.... its better than electrolytes, or lots of water, or go for a swim, or eat an ice block. Very pleased to be proven wrong however. I've a feeling I'm guessing just as much as the person who came up with the idea now.....
I'd have thought it would be more useful to provide avian electrolytes if you really wanted to administer something. They are readily available.
There is a heap of threads on here regarding tips to cope with heat well over 100f. My favourites are: misting system, shallow puddle/dish of water in the shade to stand in, wetting the ground under heavy shade and breeze, frozen foods.
Some people use baking soda as a source of sodium in home made electrolytes....... Sodium bicarbonate. So my guess is the 'chemical' is Na+
I'm also guessing the fluid build up is lactic acid or some sort of lactic acid build up effect. Which Na+ would indeed benefit.
The primary electrolytes consist of: potassium, magnesium, calcium and sodium. In the right form and proportions.
