Parasitic prevalence and indigenous medicinal plants used in traditionally managed cattle in Odeda local government area, Ogun state, Nigeria

Abstract

An investigation was carried out on the parasitic prevalence and indigenous medicinal plants that are used in the traditionally managed cattle rearing in Odeda local government area, Ogun state, Nigeria. Faecal egg count analysis and microscopic identification were used to assess the gastro intestinal and external parasites, respectively, and a structured questionnaire used to collect data on medicinal plant parts and their usage. The overall prevalence of parasitic infection was high across the study area with Strongyles and Eimeria identified as main gastrointestinal parasites while ticks, mites and lice were identified as the major ecto-parasites. Ten indigenous plants were identified and evaluated for the treatment of parasites in cattle with the leaves been widely utilized compared to the other plant parts. Some of these plants provide multipurpose remedies, preventing or curing several kinds of ailments and the mode of preparation and application of these plants parts require different methods. Respondents preferred these plants because of easy accessibility (89.5%), while 81.25% and 51.33% of the respondents prefer it because it is economical and traditional in nature respectively. About 77.5% of the respondents claimed its simplicity and effectiveness in healing without visible adverse effects. It was therefore concluded that the study areas are rich source of medicinal plants for disease management in the traditional cattle production system. However, there is need to scientifically ascertain the authenticity of the use of these medicinal plants.