Ethnomedicinal Uses of Animals in India with Reference to Asthma

50 animal species have been reported for the treatment of respiratory system related problems in different parts of India. The mammals constitute the highest number of animals used for medicinal purpose. Approximately 63 medicinal usages of these animals are reported in respiratory related diseases i.e. asthma, cough, tuberculosis etc in India. Of the total 50 animal species reported, 33 (66%) are included in IUCN red data list. 13 (26%) animal species are listed in CITES appendix I, II, and III. The number of animals reported for medicinal purposes in different parts of India is enough to feel a need to discuss on the use of animals and their products, as medicines. In order to stress how important animals were, are and can be as sources of pharmacological substances and discussion on the use of the animals and their products, as medicines in conservation biology and sustainable use.