Exploring conservation status and ethnoveterinary uses of medicinal plants in Upper-Haramosh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Background: Ethnoveterinary practices are declining, depleting valuable knowledge over time in the Haramosh region. Therefore, the current study aimed to explore and document indigenous knowledge regarding ethno-veterinary plants in Upper Haramosh and simultaneously assess their conservation status. Methods: Direct interviews were conducted with shepherds, farmers, and senior citizens possessing traditional knowledge. Semi-structured questionnaires were also developed for collecting knowledge from inhabitants. The conservation status of the species was checked referring to IUCN red list data. Results: The current study revealed ethno-veterinary uses for 25 plant species spanning 24 genera and 22 families. The Polygonaceae and Asteraceae families dominate, with three and two species, respectively. Seven common ailments were reported, with injuries having the highest plant frequency. The most common administration method was decoction, followed by powder, paste, and direct consumption. RFC values ranged from 0.3 - 0.9, with Berberis orthobotrys, Geranium pratense, Punica granatum, and Zea mays depicting the highest values. Use values ranged from 0.3 to 1, with the highest reported for B. orthobotrys, G. pratense, and Z. mays. Fidelity levels (%) for disease categories varied, with B. orthobotrys, G. pratense, Juniperus excelsa, Juglans regia, Saussurea Simpsoniana, Delphinium brunonianum, and P. granatum all demonstrating 100% fidelity for their reported disease types. Conservation status is Least Concern for all species except D. brunonianum, S. simpsoniana, and Ephedra gerardiana, which are classified as vulnerable according to IUCN Red List data. Conclusions: The study underscores the area's potential for medicinal plants, emphasizing the need for phytochemical studies to further validate their efficacy.