Medicinal herbs and phytochemicals to combat pathogens in aquaculture

The global production of aquaculture has grown rapidly and is dominated by China, Vietnam, and other East Asian countries. The use of antibiotics is widespread in the aquaculture industry but has been slowly decreasing as the benefits of medicinal herbs become clear. Various medicinal herbs are known to have excellent properties, such as antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal activity; hormonal balancing; and physiological support (immune and digestive systems). The aim of this paper is to review the latest scientific information on the application of medicinal herbs in different aquaculture sectors, including marine, freshwater and crustacean culture, and the potential problems and recommendations for the application of medicinal herbs in aquaculture, to provide clues for the development of medicinal herbs for epidemic disease resistance of aquaculture industry in the future.

Automated summary

The global production of aquaculture is growing rapidly, with a focus on China, Vietnam, and other East Asian countries. The use of antibiotics in the industry is decreasing as the benefits of medicinal herbs become clear. This paper reviews the latest scientific information on the application of medicinal herbs in various aquaculture sectors and discusses potential issues and recommendations.