<p>Bioindication has been a crucial field for assessing and conserving ecosystems and biodiversity. Like other scientific fields, bioindication is influenced by rules and principles that establish valid knowledge systems, framings of human-nature relationships and associated values. These rules and principles have been labeled Value Articulating Institutions (VAI). Although some scholars have suggested incorporating social dimensions into bioindication, there is still a lack of analysis on the institutional aspects of bioindication and the normative and epistemological assumptions of the field. This article aims to analyze bioindication as a VAI, advancing towards the integration of diverse local knowledge systems, framings on human-nature relationships and values. We conducted a critical, purposeful literature review to trace the history and origins of bioindication, examining its underlying knowledge systems, methods, framings on human-nature relationships, and values. We highlighted how the bioindication field (i) primarily relies on scientific knowledge systems, biotic-ecological principles, and quantitative methods; (ii) emphasizes ‘wardship’ and ‘utilization’ perspectives on human-nature relationships; and (iii) predominantly focuses on ecological and intrinsic values of nature. We discuss how bioindication could further integrate diverse knowledge systems and values by granting local actors greater participation and decision-making power, while also incorporating human well-being objectives and social and socioecological indicators alongside ecological ones. We conclude that pluralizing bioindication does not mean abandoning ecological indicators but expanding its scope to reflect the worldviews and values of diverse communities. Ultimately, we propose a redefinition of bioindication as a more inclusive and reflexive field that supports just and effective biodiversity conservation.</p>