Ethnoveterinary Medicine and Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Livestock Diseases in Cameroon

Abstract

Traditional medicine has remained the most affordable and easily accessible source of treatment in the primary healthcare system of resource-poor communities in Cameroon. Despite the increasing acceptance of ethnoveterinary medicine (EVM) in Cameroon, this rich indigenous knowledge is not adequately documented. The aim of this review is to summarize information on ethnoveterinary medicine practices and medicinal plants used in the treatment of livestock diseases in Cameroon. This study is based on a review of the literature published in scientific journals, books, reports from national, regional and international organizations, theses and conference papers. A review of the literature shows that livestock production in Cameroon is carried out mainly by Fulani herd pastoralists. Parasitic and infectious diseases are the most commonly found diseases. Herbs are the most popular ingredients in the preparation of ethnoveterinary medicines. Modes of administration of ethnoveterinary drugs involve predominantly the oral route, followed by the topical and nasal route. We recorded 138 plants belonging to 69 families and 110 genera that are used in Cameroon to manage livestock diseases. In Cameroon, an overwhelming majority of animal owners throughout the country rely on traditional healthcare practices to keep their animals healthy and to treat them when they are sick. Ethnoveterinary practices play significantly greater roles in livestock health care as an alternative or integral part of modern veterinary practices. Data from this study can be preserved and the utilized plants recorded for sustainable use.