Medicinal plants and non-plant remedies used in the treatment of livestock ailments in Dawuro Zone, Southwestern Ethiopia

Abstract

Ethnoveterinary medicine is part of indigenous knowledge that has been used for many centuries in the world, particularly in developing countries. Owing to its history and wider utility in our society, a survey on ethnoveterinary practice was undertaken between October 2018 and December 2019, to assess and document this traditional practice in the treatment of livestock ailments in the Dawuro zone. Data on the type of herbs/shrubs and other non-plant consumables or materials were gathered from purposively selected 81 informants using a semi-structured questionnaire. Focus group discussions, participant observations, and field trips were also made. Data obtained from the questionnaire survey were analyzed using descriptive statistics and quantitative ethnobotanical methods. Samples of plants claimed to have medicinal value were collected and botanically identified. The study revealed that 92 plant species belonging to 44 families were in use. The family Asteraceae was the most frequently reported species (11.4%). Herbs (31.7%) were the main source of traditional prepared medicine followed by shrubs (31.5%). The leaves (40.5%) and roots (34.5%) were more commonly utilized parts of plants while pounding (78.8%) was the major formulation. Among the non-plant materials, bear faeces, sharp hot iron or wire/knife, and common salt showed the highest utility level (100%). Azadirachta indica was the most preferred species to treat blackleg and also with the highest use value (UVs=0.36). The study revealed that the local communities of the study areas were rich in indigenous knowledge of ethnoveterinary practices. Thus, a strong protective policy is needed to safeguard the plant species; and develop regulations in the applications of ethnoveterinary knowledge. Moreover, bioactive validation of plant chemical content, along with testing for efficacy and safety would be part of indispensable technicalities for rational utility in the future.