Learning from animals? shared plant use between Lua herders and water buffalo in Northern Thailand

Article

Nicolas LAINÉ, associate research fellow at IRASEC, co-authored an article with Kim Fooyontphanich, Suthee Janyasuthiwong and Phattaravee Prommanut, published in “Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine” on April 29, 2026.

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In this study, the interplay between animal feeding behaviors and the evolution of local human and veterinary pharmacopeias is examined through the lens of the Lua people and their water buffalos in Northern Thailand. By interviewing 18 Lua herders in Ban Huay Phan, researchers explored buffalo grazing habits, health issues, and specific plant consumption during various physiological or pathological states, alongside local ethnoveterinary practices. The investigation focused on the shared use of natural resources, documenting plant parts consumed by buffalos, their preparation and administration methods if used by humans, and collecting species samples for identification at the Bangkok Herbarium (BBH). This approach highlights the interconnectedness of human ethnomedicine and animal self-medication, shedding light on the development of local medicinal knowledge and practices.