MEDICINAL PLANTS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF ANIMAL DISEASES- A REVIEW ON VETERINARY MEDICINE

Field: Veterinary (Health Sciences)

Introduction/Background: The health of animals plays a pivotal role in ensuring worldwide food security, fostering economic prosperity, and safeguarding public health. The presence of contagious and parasitic ailments can exert substantial repercussions on the welfare of animals, resulting in considerable financial setbacks for farmers and livestock custodians across the globe. The global impact of animal diseases encompasses animal fatalities, reduced output, and the expenses associated with veterinary care. These factors collectively impinge upon food availability and the livelihoods of rural communities. Vital sectors of the food industry, such as meat, dairy, and egg production, heavily rely on the well-being of animals to meet the escalating demand for sustenance. Contagious diseases in animals, in particular, represent a substantial economic menace, precipitating declines in productivity, efficiency, and revenue. Conventional pharmaceuticals have traditionally served as the primary avenue for treating animal diseases. Nevertheless, the utilization of natural products in animal health has garnered increasing attention due to their potential therapeutic attributes and advantages. Materials and Methods: Natural products are derived from various sources, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, and have been used for centuries to treat human and animal diseases. The use of natural products in animal medicine has been shown to have fewer adverse effects, less likelihood of drug resistance, and cost-effectiveness. This review article was conducted by searching for relevant literature using electronic databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Articles published between 2010 and 2022 were included, and the search terms used included "natural products," "animal medicine," "animal health," "herbal medicine," and "traditional medicine." The articles were reviewed, and the relevant information was extracted and synthesized. Results and Discussion: The use of natural products in animal medicine offers several advantages and benefits. Natural products have a range of therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. They have been used to treat conditions such as pain, anxiety, arthritis, and skin infections, among others. Additionally, some natural products have been found to have immunomodulatory effects, meaning they can enhance the immune system's ability to fight off diseases. Natural products are also used to prevent and control diseases in animals. Garlic and oregano, for example, are natural products that have been shown to have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, making them useful in preventing and treating infections. The applications of natural products in animal medicine are vast, and they are commonly used in both traditional and modern veterinary practices. Aloe vera is used topically to treat wounds and burns, while turmeric is used as an anti-inflammatory agent in the treatment of arthritis. Other natural products such as chamomile, lavender, and valerian root are used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation in animals. In addition to their therapeutic properties, natural products have a safety profile that is generally better than synthetic drugs. Unlike synthetic drugs, natural products are generally safe and have few to no adverse effects when used correctly. They also have a lower risk of developing resistance, which is a significant problem with many synthetic drugs. Conclusion: The use of natural products in animal medicine offers several advantages and benefits, including fewer adverse effects, less likelihood of drug resistance, and cost-effectiveness. The therapeutic properties of natural products can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, and their applications are likely to increase in the future. As such, natural products continue to be an important area of research in animal medicine. However, it is important to note that the use of natural products should be done with caution, and it is recommended to consult with a veterinary professional before administering any natural product to an animal.