Traditional Medicine and the Pangolin Trade: A Review of Drivers and Conservation Challenges

Pangolins (Manidae), recognized for their distinctive keratinous scales, are the world’s most trafficked mammals. This is primarily due to their extensive use in traditional medicine systems in Africa and Asia, where their body parts, particularly their scales, are used in various health practices. This high demand fueled widespread poaching and illegal wildlife trade, placing immense pressure on their populations. A critical knowledge gap persists regarding the specific body parts utilized and the global extent of pangolin use in traditional medicine, which hinders effective conservation strategies and demand mitigation efforts. Bridging the divide between traditional knowledge and modern scientific research is essential to ensure both cultural practices and species preservation. Therefore, this review comprehensively examines the complex relationship between pangolins and human health practices. It explores the cultural, medicinal, and ecological significance of pangolins, addresses sustainability challenges of their populations, and outlines the key drivers of their exploitation.