A review on the application of herbal medicines in the disease control of aquatic animals

In recent years, the aquaculture industry has been significantly affected by the breakout of disease, especially viral and bacterial disease. The chemical and antibiotic drugs are highly toxic, and can result in drug resistant pathogenic microbes. Thus, their use is now restricted or banned in some countries. In contrast, herbal compounds added to aquaculture feeds can prevent and control diseases of aquatic animals and they are known for their safety, low toxicity, and minimal environmental impacts. Research has shown that herbal medicine has an important role in enhancing the immune function of aquatic animals (e.g., fish, shrimp, and crabs), and effectively promotes antiviral, antibacterial, antiparasitic activities of the immune system. Currently, many researches are focusing on the immunological role of specific extracts from individual herbs, allowing precision medication and a reduction in development costs. This study reviewed the application of herbal medicine in the prevention of disease in aquaculture, highlighting its potential as a more environmentally friendly approach to prevent disease in aquaculture.