Beyond conventional antibiotics approaches: Global perspectives on alternative therapeutics including herbal prevention, and proactive management strategies in bovine mastitis

• Published in: Microbial pathogenesis 2024-11, Vol.196, p.106989, Article 106989
• Main Authors: Sindhu, Sonal, Saini, Tarun, Rawat, Harsh Kumar, Chahar, Manjeet, Grover, Ankita, Ahmad, Sayeed, Mohan, Hari
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Antimicrobial resistance; Herbal therapy; Management strategies; Mastitis; Nanotechnology
• ISSN: 0882-4010; 1096-1208; 1096-1208
• DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106989

Mastitis, an intramammary inflammation resulting from microbial infectious agents, continues to pose a significant challenge within the dairy sector, adversely affecting animal well-being and leading to substantial economic losses. These losses are attributed to decreased milk production, heightened culling rates, and the expenses related to diagnostics, veterinary care, medication, and labor. Moreover, additional costs emerge due to reduced forthcoming milk yields, compromised reproductive health, and increased susceptibility to various illnesses. Identifying the responsible agents is crucial for disease management and the implementation of antimicrobial treatments. Despite the prevalent use of antibiotic treatment, the pressing need for new therapeutic alternatives to combat bovine mastitis arises from limitations, including low cure rates, rising resistance, and the presence of antibiotic residues in milk. This review explores the potential application of herbal extracts and essential oils known for their antimicrobial properties as alternative options for managing pathogens in mastitis treatment. It examines various treatment methods and management strategies, particularly emphasizing the progress of herbal remedies and natural therapeutics in addressing mastitis, a significant concern in bovine populations and dairy herds. •Bovine mastitis, a prevalent affliction in dairy farming, significantly impacts animal welfare and industry profitability.•Antimicrobial resistance challenges conventional antibiotic treatments, highlighting the need for alternative therapeutic strategies.•Comprehensive research into innovative treatment methods is crucial for effectively managing mastitis and promoting sustainable dairy production.•Herbal and natural remedies exhibit potential in mastitis management, offering antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulatory benefits while addressing the broader challenges in dairy health.