Aquatic detoxification: the role of herbal supplements in mitigating the effect of paint industry effluents

Context Aquaculture, a vital protein-rich food source, faces numerous challenges, including disease outbreaks triggered by industrial effluents. Aims The discharge of toxic effluents from paint industry significantly threatens aquatic life, particularly fish. These effluents contain various hazardous substances such as heavy metals, organic and inorganic pollutants, which cause detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems. Methods Traditionally, antibiotics have been used to mitigate harmful effects of pollutants; however, their overuse has led to concerns about antibiotic resistance, environmental pollution and adverse health effects. Key results To solve this problem, herbal supplements, particularly those derived from plants, offer a sustainable solution by boosting the immune system of aquatic organisms and promoting a healthier ecosystem. Conclusions Herbal supplements such as ginger, turmeric, garlic and many others, offer promising alternatives because they exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune modulatory effects, which help protect fish against the toxic effects of paint-industry effluents. By contrast, antibiotics have demonstrated limited efficacy and cause potential adverse effects on both fish health and the environment. Implications Overall, herbal supplements offer a safer and more effective approach to mitigate the toxic effects of effluents on fish, highlighting their potential as a sustainable solution for aquatic environmental protection.