Advancements in Ethnobotanical Sciences 2 2 2026 06 30 Ethnoveterinary Survey of Medicinal Plants Used for the Management of Diarrhoea in Sheep in Dehloran County, Iran 7 14 10.34172/jaebs.2026.9 EN Abdulbari A. Alfaris https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1681-854X Aghakhan Kheiri https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7109-728X Journal Article 10.34172/jaebs.2026.9 2026 02 01 2026 05 20 Background and Objective: Diarrhoea is a common gastrointestinal disorder in domestic livestock, particularly sheep, and may impair growth and productivity and, in severe cases, cause mortality. In rural areas of Iran, livestock keepers continue to rely on indigenous knowledge and medicinal plants for animal healthcare. This study aimed to identify and document medicinal plants traditionally used to manage diarrhoea in sheep in Dehloran County, western Iran. Methods: The study was conducted in September 2025 in Dehloran County. Ethnoveterinary information was obtained from 45 livestock keepers (38 men and 7 women) through structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. Cited plant specimens were collected and identified using recognised floristic references, including Flora of Ilam. For each species, Persian and vernacular names, scientific name, family, plant part used, preparation method and reported therapeutic effect were recorded. Results: A total of 18 medicinal plant species belonging to 12 botanical families were identified as traditionally used to manage diarrhoea in livestock in Dehloran County. Lamiaceae had the highest species diversity, followed by Apiaceae and Plantaginaceae, indicating the use of a relatively diverse range of indigenous medicinal plants for gastrointestinal disorders. Conclusions: The findings demonstrate valuable indigenous knowledge concerning the traditional use of medicinal plants for managing diarrhoea in sheep in Dehloran County. The predominance of Lamiaceae may reflect its importance in local livestock healthcare practices. Documenting this knowledge may support the preservation of local therapeutic heritage and provide a basis for future pharmacological and veterinary research. However, the efficacy and safety of these plants require rigorous experimental and clinical evaluation before their traditional uses can be incorporated into evidence-based veterinary practice.