Ethnoveterinary medicine: Role of medicinal plants in modern veterinary pharmacology

Abstract

Ethnoveterinary medicine (EVM) has emerged as a promising field combining indigenous knowledge systems with modern veterinary pharmacology. It involves the use of medicinal plants and traditional practices for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases in livestock and companion animals. As the global livestock industry faces mounting challenges including antimicrobial resistance, chemical residues in animal products, high treatment costs, and lack of accessible healthcare in rural areas, ethnoveterinary approaches offer viable and sustainable alternatives. This review examines the theoretical foundation of EVM, evaluates the pharmacological actions of selected medicinal plants, and presents scientific studies validating their efficacy in animal health. The focus is placed upon their modes of action, therapeutic uses, integration problems, and future prospect. Based on a combination of conventional wisdom and contemporary evidence, ethnoveterinary treatments have the ability to transform veterinary care in developing and developed countries alike.