Animal husbandry
November 2025
Domestication, History and Herbal Approaches to Animal Healthcare
The domestication of animals marks a transformative chapter in human history, deeply influencing lifestyles, livelihoods, and relationships with nature. In India, animal husbandry is more than an economic activity—it is a cultural tradition rooted in values of care and compassion, as reflected in the principle of Ahimsa found in Vedic texts, epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and Buddhist and Jain teachings. This interdisciplinary volume, comprising twelve chapters, explores the historical evolution, cultural dimensions, and scientific relevance of traditional animal management practices in India. A central focus is Indigenous Traditional Knowledge (ITK) and Ethnoveterinary Medicine (EVM), which include time-tested practices using herbs, minerals, herbo-mineral combinations, and ethnozoological remedies. These approaches are grounded in centuries-old wisdom and resonate with the modern science of zoopharmacognosy—the study of animals’ self- medicative behavior—traced to ancient Indian scriptures.
The book offers an in-depth exploration of Ayurveda-based veterinary care (Pashu Ayurveda), outlining its origins, core principles, and continued relevance. It highlights the contributions of ancient scholars such as Shalihotra, Nakul, Palkapya, Jayadatta, Charaka, Sushruta, Jivaka, and Vagbhata, while also discussing the practical application of Ayurvedic formulations in contemporary livestock management—showcasing India's rich legacy in animal health sciences. Concepts from classical texts are shown to align with modern approaches like reverse pharmacology, animal- assisted therapy, and the One Health framework. The chapters further examine phytopharmacology and the scientific validation of traditional herbal therapies, offering insights into pathways for herbal drug development. Practical considerations, such as the design and utility of herbal gardens, are also addressed, emphasizing their therapeutic, educational, and conservation value. Richly illustrated with photographs and visual material, the book captures the socio-cultural and ritual importance of domestic animals in Indian life—spanning rural livelihoods, festivals, and temple practices. Detailed images of medicinal plants and herbal gardens serve as a valuable resource for those engaged in ethnobotany, veterinary care, and biodiversity conservation.
This comprehensive reference is intended for students, scholars, and practitioners in veterinary science, ethnobotany, rural development, and complementary medicine. It also serves traditional knowledge holders, policy makers, and researchers interested in sustainable animal healthcare systems rooted in indigenous practices.
