Is ethnoveterinary medicine sustainable in Nigeria? What happens when science forgets its roots?

By Temitayo Joshua

In a world where scientific advancement often overshadows traditional knowledge, it is worth asking: What happens when science forgets its roots? Ethnoveterinary medicine (EVM), though ancient, remains relevant, especially in countries like Nigeria where accessibility, affordability, and cultural heritage play a crucial role in livestock care.

Ethnoveterinary medicine, as defined by McCorkle in 1995, is “the holistic, interdisciplinary study of local knowledge and its associated skills, practices, beliefs, practitioners, and social structures pertaining to the healthcare and healthful husbandry of food, work, and other income-producing animals.”

In simpler terms, EVM refers to the traditional methods used in raising livestock, involving natural remedies, herbs, and indigenous practices passed down through generations.

In Nigeria, particularly in rural communities, EVM remains indispensable. Modern veterinary services are often expensive and largely unavailable in remote areas. This gap has led many farmers to rely on traditional remedies not only out of necessity but also due to deep-rooted cultural trust. Plants such as neem, known for its antiparasitic properties, and garlic, used in treating respiratory infections in poultry, exemplify the practical value of these traditional practices.

Moreover, Nigeria faces a significant shortage of trained veterinarians, especially in rural regions. EVM bridges this gap, offering immediate and accessible solutions to livestock health challenges. Beyond immediate application, EVM also holds immense potential for scientific research and drug development, paving the way for future innovations rooted in traditional wisdom.

However, despite its many advantages, the sustainability of ethnoveterinary practices is under threat. One major concern is the lack of standardization. Traditional remedies often come without precise dosages or preparation guidelines, leading to cases of underdosing or overdosing, sometimes with fatal consequences.

This not only results in economic losses for farmers but also weakens the credibility of EVM.

Another pressing issue is the gradual erosion of traditional knowledge. As older generations pass on without adequately transferring their expertise, the risk of losing this valuable cultural resource grows.

In the face of modernization and urbanization, fewer young people are being trained in traditional veterinary practices.

So, can ethnoveterinary medicine be integrated into modern veterinary science in Nigeria? The answer is a resounding yes. Integration can occur through complementary use (where traditional remedies are used alongside modern treatments) research into the efficacy and safety of herbal solutions, and the development of standardized herbal drugs.

This approach would improve access to affordable healthcare for livestock, especially for small-scale farmers.
If we fail to preserve and integrate EVM, what options will remain for the farmer who cannot afford conventional veterinary drugs? Ethnoveterinary medicine may be old, but its relevance is timeless. With thoughtful integration, it can complement modern science and continue to support Nigeria’s agricultural backbone for generations to come.