Ethnoveterinary medicine on preserving traditional knowledge for animal health in the Chumoukedima District of Nagaland in India

Abstract

Abstract. Kichu T, Jamir T, Imlinungla. 2025. Ethnoveterinary medicine on preserving traditional knowledge for animal health in the Chumoukedima District of Nagaland in India. Asian J Ethnobiol 8: 30-40. Animals have always been integral to human life, serving various purposes from companions to agriculture and livelihood. Indigenous knowledge and traditional plant-based healing practices remain vital for maintaining animal health offering natural and old-age remedies passed down through generations. The present study aims to document ethnoveterinary medicinal plants and practices in the Chumoukedima District of Nagaland, India using semi-structured interviews. A total of 50 plants belonging to 48 genera and 35 families were recorded, with Asteraceae being the most frequently reported family (5 species, 10%). Leaves (50%) were the most utilized plant part, favored for their abundance, ease of collection and sustainability. Herbs with 42% were the most favored growth form, while paste with 30.36% was the preferred preparation method. Medicinal remedies were used to treat a variety of animals, with pigs (39.7%) being the most frequently treated. Among the health issues addressed, injuries (21.7%) were the most commonly reported, followed by skin problems and dysentery (17.4%). The primary route of medicine administration was internal, with remedies either given in raw form or combined with other plants and fodder. This study will safeguard indigenous knowledge and could contribute to the development of effective plant-based remedies to address various livestock diseases and health issues.