A significant aspect of traditional Mongolian knowledge, especially concerning the classic model of nomadic animal husbandry, centers on raising, protecting, and treating livestock. Historically, Mongolian herders have prioritized the health of their animals over their well-being. 

For thousands of years, Mongolian people have accumulated extensive experience in pastoralism and treating diseases and injuries in their pastoral animals. They rely on traditional knowledge and methods, such as pastoral management, healing through home remedies, cauterizing, acupuncture, bloodletting, and bone-setting.

A herder is often viewed as a master of countless skills and professions. They have mastered a rich tapestry of knowledge, such as breeding and raising herds, identifying harmful and non-toxic grazing plants for their livestock, migrating seasonally, managing livestock, and living in harmony with nature.

Our herder ancestors responded to diseases early on by switching pastures along the grasslands and water crossings, choosing the proper pasture, using rare vegetation, herbs, game meat, and oil for treatment, and using traditional home remedies such as leeching and puncturing. This is because livestock immunity is well-established and less disease-resistant. Frequent migrations are the basis for the welfare of animals. Nomadic pastoralism prevents livestock diseases caused by overgrazing, manure, and pollution. As a result, they developed a unique system of ethno-veterinary practices.

In addition, Mongolian herders, who have lived in close harmony with nature, have also used spells and specific curing rituals called 'dom' to heal and protect their livestock. 

Given the vastness of the pastures used for livestock, there are limited opportunities to visit veterinarians or hospitals when animals become sick or injured. Consequently, individuals who pass down knowledge of animal healing practices are highly respected within their families and communities.

Video (TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE ASSOCIATED WITH ETHNO-VETERINARY PRACTICE EN)

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