ethnoveterinary applications of curcuma longa: a review article

Among various herbal remedies employed in ethnoveterinary medicine, curcuma longa (turmeric) stands out due to its extensive use in traditional medicine systems. traditional medicine practitioners have utilized turmeric for its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-oxidant properties, making it a valuable resource in treating a range of animal ailments. pubmed and google scholar were searched using the keywords curcuma longa and ethnoveterinary. out of 273 articles, 16 studies were chosen. pharmacological studies were examined to assess the therapeutic efficacy of curcuma longa and its active constituent, curcumin. curcuma longa is traditionally used in the treatment of over thirty conditions, such as wounds, hepatic disorders, jaundice, and as a blood purifier. it exhibits a wide range of therapeutic activities, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects (1,2). curcumin, the primary active constituent, inhibits leukotriene biosynthesis, reduces prostaglandin formation, and induces apoptosis in cancer cells. the phytochemical composition of curcuma longa includes flavonoids, tannins, anthocyanins, phenolic compounds, and essential oils. this review underscores the versatility and economic significance of curcuma longa, highlighting its potential for broader application in both traditional and modern medicine, particularly in ethnoveterinary contexts. despite promising pre-clinical evidence, further clinical trials are necessary to validate its therapeutic potential and ensure its efficacy in clinical settings.