Horse Herbs!!!
Myth...
Herbs are natural, so they are good for animals and they are safe.
Reality...
There are many plants that will make an animal (or human) very ill, some that will kill! Anyone with a horse should know about the dangers of Privet, Ragwort, Foxglove, Acorn, Hemlock etc. What about Marijuana, Poppy, Tobacco or even, to a lesser extent, Coffee - all natural plants which could hardly be classed as harmless. Sometimes one part of a plant is poisonous while another part isn't. Sometimes a particular plant is poisonous to one species of animal but not to another.
The effects of "herbs" should never be underestimated!
Our page on herbs is only telling you a little about each herb, we are not here to tell you how to use them. Seek a veterinary or herbalist for more information on how to use herbs on horses before using them, as many of the herbs if given wrong or too much of can and will undoubtably kill your horse.
The horse in his natural environment will eat flowers, weeds, roots, barks, nuts, the horse knows all parts of the herb world. To treat the horse with herbs makes more sound sense and not nonsense. Is today's perfect pastures without a weed really the best for the horse?
Astragalus
Acts as tonic to protect the immune system,as diuretic to reduce edema, and as an anhydrotic. Aids adrenal gland function and digestion. Increased metabolism. Traditionally used for Immunostimulant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, mildly depresses thyroid function, lowers blood pressure, helps with blood cleaning, strengthens digestion. Should not be used for animals (or humans) with abnormally functioning immune systems. This includes any disease where the immune system actually works against itself such as multiple sclerosis, leukosis, diabetes mellitus or feline immunodeficiency.
Basil
Basil is traditionally used for any sort of spasm. It is useful in old and new muscle spasm. It is particularly useful in show-jumping horses where their shoulders tighten up and in front of the shoulder blade. Also it is used internally for respiratory disorders (coughing) and for constipation or digestive disorders.
Bee Pollen
Effective for combating fatigue, depression, cancer and colon disorder. It has an antimicrobial effect. Used as an immune system builder, "Bee Pollen" is thought to have the ability to correct body chemistry and eliminate unhealthy conditions. It is considered to have the ability to throw off poisons and toxic materials from the body. Chemical pollutants are known as the most severe stressors to a horses immune system. A side effect of chemical treatment decreases their body's production of blood cells and nutrients in the blood. It is rapidly absorbed into the blood stream and stimulates immunological responses. Honey is also an antiseptic and salve for burns.
Bergamot
Bergamot will help relieve any skin irritations, it is useful in addressing mild skin eruptions usually caused by an allergic reaction or insect bites.
Black Walnut Hull
Black Walnut, including the kernel and green hull, have been used to expel various kinds of worms by some American Indian tribes. External applications have been known to kill ringworm. The Chinese use it to kill tapeworm with extremely good success.
Blessed Thistle
Excellent stimulant tonic for the stomach & heart. It aids circulation & helps to resolve liver problems. It is said to have great power in the purification and circulation of the blood, and on this account strengthens the brain and the memory.
Burdock Root
Extremely good for removing toxins from the body. Strong blood purifier & cleanser. One of the best herbs for skin problems. Good for advanced cases of arthritis. The root of the burdock is a digestive bitter and stimulates liver function. It is especially useful for horses that exhibit poor feed utilization and or reduced appetite.
Calendula Flower
Traditionally renowned for its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and healing properties. Calendula Infused Oil can be used for skin irritation due to chafing, wind, cold or dry air exposure, to help heal dry, cracked or itchy skin, cuts, infected and inflamed wounds, hard-to-heal sores. Calendula Infused Oil has been known to decrease the inflammation of sprains, stings, and other swellings, soothes skin irritations, stimulates wound healing, and soothes pain. Calendula oil is often used to aid in lessening scarring after wounds heal and after stitches are removed. External uses for poorly healing wounds. Promotes wound healing.
Cascara Sagrada Bark
One of the best remedies for chronic constipation. Will stimulate the secretions of the entire digestive system. Excellent remedy for gallstones. It is very valuable when there are hemorrhoids associated with poor bowel movement
Catnip Leaf
Useful for upset stomach, colic, spasms, flatulency. Catnip also has some antibiotic properties which lends credence to its traditional use in some cases of diarrhea and fever. As an antibiotic, catnip is not particularly powerful, but it may help prevent infection.
Cayenne
It can lower blood pressure, improve metabolism and regulate the heart. These are some of the healing qualities of cayenne that have been researched. However, I do not recommend feeding it, unless of course your vet recommended its use. Cayenne is also known to stop bleeding. It is effective in warming and improvement of circulation.
Celery Roots: Herb and Seed
Celery seed provides a warming effect and acts as a digestive bitter. It is useful for horses that have become 'run down' as a result of transportation, overwork and exposure to cold. Celery can contain large amounts of phototoxic furanocoumarin. Animal experiments showed indications of diuretic action.
Chamomile
Nutrient Value - is high in phosphorous and calcium utilised by the nervous system. Anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy, aids digestion, relieves muscle spasm. A renowned herbal sedative, it is probably the most widely used relaxing nervine herb in the western world. It relaxes and tones the nervous system, and is especially valuable where anxiety and tension produce digestive symptoms such as gas, colic pains or even ulcers.
Cleavers
Can be used both internally and externally. It is helpful for relieving skin conditions. cleavers has long been valued as a tonic for the lymphatic system, it aides in lymph drainage for respiratory problems. Cleavers is used to treat skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema and acne. It is also useful in treating swollen glands and urinary stones.
Comfrey
External use only, Comfrey’s alternative name of "knitbone" gives some clue as to the major use of the herb. Often used to make as a pain soothing poultice or as an Infused Oil to help heal severe cuts, swellings, bruises, sprains, pulled muscles and ligaments and mend broken bones, and promote the "coming to head" of boils and abscesses. Application only on intact skin. Because Comfrey may heal the skin so quickly, be sure that the site is well cleaned as any dirt/debris may be sealed in (which could then cause infection). Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause liver damage if used internally.
Cramp Bark
Used as a muscle relaxant also sedates the nervous system. Good for colicky gut and urinary systems.
Damiana Leaf
his herb has been called the "lover's herb". It has an ancient reputation as an aphrodisiac which supports both male and female sexuality. The action of damiana is to carry oxygen and increase circulation to the genital area. It is an excellent strengthening remedy for the nervous system. It has a definite tonic action on the central nervous and the hormonal system. It has also been called an energy tonic and as a useful anti-depressant, Damiana is considered to be aspecific in cases of anxiety and depression where there is a sexual factor. Excellent herb for helping with sexual impotency & infertility for both male & female.
Dandelion Root
Tonic,system cleanser,high nutritional value, and digestive aid. Urinary track cleanser. Cleanses liver, kidneys and blood. Contains high amounts of potassium, counteracting the loss of potassium, during its diuretic action.
Devils Claw
Used as an anti-inflammatory and a painkiller for arthritist and is ideal for stiff joints
in the colder seasons. Promotes flexibility in joints. Do not use during pregnancy. It can reduce inflammation and reduce pain. There are no apparent adverse side effects. Also can be used to treat loss of appetite, arthritis, fever, myalgia, tendonitis, gastrointestinal problems, and liver and gallbladder problems. Devil's claw is also an effective therapy for degenerative musculoskeletal conditions (disorders of locomotive system).
Dong Quai Root
Popular Chinese herb used to improve mental acuity & to help relieve symptoms of daily stress & mental fatigue. It also acts strongly on the female reproductive organs, but the action is not thought to be hormonal, and phytosterols have been isolated. Rather, Dong Quai is believed to increase metabolism within the uterus and ovaries. Cellular activity within the female reproductive organs is stimulated and the utilization of glucose and the synthesis of DNA is observed to increase in these organs. Dong Quai has also been credited with immune enhancing, and anti-tumor activity.
Echinacea
Echinacea is actually one of the orginal prairie grasses that horses and buffalo would graze on. One of the best herbs for immune supporters. It fights bacterial and viral infections. Builds resistance to infections in the respiratory tract and aids in drainage of the respiratory tract as well as stimulate glandular organs such as the kidneys to function more efficiently. Some research showing anti-inflammatory actions. Helps urinary track. Contains flavonoids, especially rutin, which strengthens blood vessels and helps circulatory problems. Should not be used for animals with abnormally functioning immune systems. This includes any disease where the immune system actually works against itself such as multiple sclerosis, leukosis, diabetes mellitus or feline immunodeficiency.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a handy essential oil to have around to ward off winter ills. If you have the scent of eucalyptus wafting around your stable it prevents germs form jumping through the air, acting as a negative ion generator. Eucalyptus is useful in a post-event muscle rub.
Feverfew
Traditionally used for Anti-inflammatory, helps reduce arthritic inflammation, dilates blood vessels and insecticide. Allergies to feverfew and other members of the Asteraceae. Fresh foliage should not be fed to animals because it may result in mouth ulcers (make sure the herb is dried first). Do not use internally for periods exceeding one week. Do not use during pregnancy
Garlic
Garlic and onions grow wild and your horses will find them while grazing around. Cluster of bulbs forming the garlic clove which when broken release a strong odour.Nutrient value – Predominantly consists of sulphur compounds containing allicin and allin, volatile oils, trace minerals zinc and copper. Very effective for fighting bacteria especially in the digestive tract, helping to maintain the balance of the gut flora. Antifungal and antiparasitic - effective against hookworms, tapeworms, pinworms and roundworms and aids in the deterrence of external parasites/insects. Alterative – blood cleanser and enhances circulation that assists in recovery from illness. An excellent all purpose preventative herb. It is brilliant for colds as well.
Geranium
Geranium is another oil useful in addressing stuck aching muscles. It helps relieve spasms while having a mild analgesic affect so you can massage the muscle more deeply when needed. This essential oil balances hormones and it moods. Great for young, moody, and sometimes-temperamental race fillies.
German Chamomile
Digestive aid, reduces gastrointestinal spasms, especially helpful in horses that are having recurrent digestive problems. Calming effects, anti-inflammatory actions, one of the best all around herbs. Externally, chamomile it is used for inflammation of skin and mucous membranes caused by fleabites, contact allergies and various bacterial or fungal infections. Should be of limited use during pregnancy.
Ginger
Warming herb promotes digestive enzyme activity. Ginger is a common treatment for nausea. Ginger is used in easing digestive problems from nausea and motion sickness. It is also used to help detoxify the body since it promotes sweating. It has a protective effect on the stomach and liver. Studies showing use for arthritis,anti-inflammatory agent.
hops
"Hop tops" - young shoots given to colts to condition them. A good tonic. Flowers fed in fodder to quiet restless animals as itcalms down the nervous system. It also stimulates appetite and is good for digestive aliments.
Ivy
Very good for internal cleansing after birth, 1 to 2 cups chopped herb for mares immediately after giving birth. In treating retained afterbirth make a strong brew; in 1 pint of water add 1 to 2 cups of common Ivy half pint drenches approximately every 3 hours. Do not confuse with Poison Ivy please!
Kava Kava
Commonly used for conditions of nervous anxiety, stress, and restlessness. Sedative and sleep enhancement. Could cause mild gastrointestinal disturbances. It can also be an effective topical preparation combined with calendula for painful wounds. In rare cases, allergic skin reactions can occur. Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation.
Lady's Mantle
Horses like this herb so do sheep and goats. Lady's Mantle is very proper for inflamed wounds and to stay bleeding, vomitings, fluxes of all sorts, bruises by falls and ruptures. It is one of the most singular wound herbs and therefore highly prized and praised, used in all wounds inward and outward. It has been said that should man or animals take this herb on mid summers eve they could become invisible!!
Lavender
Lavender essential oil's unique floral-herbaceous aroma and relatively safe and gentle aromatherapeutic action make it one of the most important aromatherapy essential oils. Common therapeutic uses are - Burns, Inflammation, Cuts, Wounds, Nervous Tension, Infections, Bacterial conditions, Sores, Arthritis, Muscular Pain & Spasms.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass has an affinity with myofascial tissue and useful in the recovery of tendon problems as well as shin soreness.
Marshmallow Leaf
Helps heal & soothe inflamed areas of the body. Works well for poor kidneys & bladder. Useful for urinary problems and is beneficial for gastric complaints such as ulcers, colitis, bloat and inflammation. Its healing properties are also helpful for the urinary tract.
Meadowsweet
This is one of the best digestive remedies available. It is soothing to the mucous membranes of the digestive tract. It is also an anti-inflammatory and contains pain-relieving compounds and can help to ease nausea. Combines well with Marshmallow for digestive disturbances. Used by gypsies as a spring tonic for horses.
Muira Puama
Assists in correcting male sexual dysfunction.
Mullein Leaf
High in iron, magnesium & potassium. Splendid for the entire respiratory system Expectorant,soothes irritated bronchial passages. Helps relieve gastrointestinal stress. Very effective in relieving swollen joints.
Nettles
Nettles is one of the highest sources of iron and is easily used by the body. It helps to restore the bloom shine and dappling in a horses coat. Good forage dried for horses, rich in minerals, lime, sodium, iron, chlorine and a naturally good in protein value. Nettle juice mixed with nettle seeds is a good hair tonic - use internally 1 cup of juice in the animals mash. It may helps lessen symptoms of seasonal allergies. Use externally to wash the coat, it will give it a beautiful shine, beneficial for show or racehorses. Animals who are predisposed to plant allergies though may be sensitive to nettle.
Oak
Gypsies used the ripe acorns ground and dried them and mixed them with wheat flour to make a gruel. The green cups are very astringent and made into a strong brew are used to check bleeding internally and externally, 1 to 2 oz to 1.5 pints water.
Passion Flower
It is one of the best herbal tranquilizers. Relieves muscle tension, helpful for muscle spasms due to nerves. Excellent calming properties. Not reccommended for pregnant mares.
Pau D'Arco
since information on its anti-fungal and anti-candida properties were made known, this South American herb, derived from a common forest tree, has been tremendously popular. It is the herb of choice for Candidiasis, an increasingly widespread disease of the last several years, due to the overuse of antibiotics and other stressors on our immune function. Scientific studies also show that the active ingredient of pau d'arco, lapachol, can inhibit tumor growth. Also call "ipe roxo," it is actually the inner bark from a tree of the Bignoniaceae family, though there is some confusion about the tree's botanical identity -- probably several species form the genus Tecoma or Tabebuia are used. Pau d'arco should have a rich red color and an aroma resembling vanilla. It contains quinones that are strongly anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. Plantation-grown Argentinian. An herbal extract that typically contains 3% naphthoquinones as active components; historically used as an anti-inflammatory, anti-androgenic and for prostate disorders.
Peppermint Leaf
Peppermint is extremely well known as a remedy for stomach ands intestinal disorders, hence the tradition of having a mint after dinner. The essential oils present in peppermint normalize digestive tract function. The oils also have antiulcer and anti-inflammatory activity. Peppermint has been shown to have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. However, the peppermint in sugary candies only has a few of these properties and many candies are made with artificial peppermint flavor. It also has a calming effect.
Poplar (Black)
Buds crushed in milk, honey and wine a good tonic for horses. For sores, wounds, ulcers. Used externally too (by making an ointment with the young buds).
Puffball
Used to stem bleeding and promote healing. Crushed and then applied to wounds.
Quince
A great hair tonic for manes and tails. The peel is made into a brew 1 cup to 1 pint.
Rhubarb Root
Powerful laxative. Use in small amounts. Effective treatment for the cessation.
Rose Hips
The hips are small olive shaped seedpods, which remain after flowering. they are very rich source of vitamin C, and iron; also contains biotin, vitamins A, B and a variety of other vitamins. Vitamin C acts as an anti-oxidant, helps fight infections, and stimulates the immune system. It is important for collagen formation, growth and repair of tissue, and the healing of wounds. It acts as an vasodilator; opens blood vessels. Has antihistamine actions, and strengthens capillaries. Research data has also shown that rose hips help with inflammation, due to the flavonoids.
Sanicle
Used as a talisman on banners and shields to protect war-horses and hopefully their riders. Good fodder. Effective for internal bleeding and wounds. Whole plant used make a brew or give 1 to 2 cupfuls of the herb in feed. It is a herbal bulldozer it is good at dissolving tumors.
Scabious
Cleansing and antiseptic. A brew of the root and herb thickened with borax, removes old sores and dandruff. Mix about 2 cups herb and root to one and a half pints water. Put in 1 tablespoons of borax powder while still hot and stir well. Apply when cooled.
Schisandra Berries
Used in northern European and Far East countries for hundreds of years it has anti-bacterial, anti-toxic, anti-allergenic, anti-depressant properties as well as resistance stimulation, liver protection and glycogenesis stimulant activities. Primarily suggested for anti-fatigue qualities. Used by athletes, pilots, hunters and for polo horses. It protects the liver and stimulates the immune system. Also suggested for increased sexual enhancement for both men and women.
Sheep Sorrel
Two known ingredients from the leaf are aloe emodin, shown to have significant anti-leukaemia activity in mice, and rumex acetosella, a polysaccharide shown to display significant anti-tumour activity. Exceptionally good for kidney trouble. It also expels gravel from the kidneys. When the kidneys are functioning properly, the entire body will feel better and the skin will look much clearer.
Slippery Elm Inner Bark
Soothing & healing to the mucus membranes of the lungs & gastro-intestinal tract. Also useful in treating inflamed membranes in the stomach, bowels, kidney & urinary tract. During the War of 1812, when food was scarce, British soldiers fed their horses on slippery elm bark.
Star of Bethleham
Star of Bethleham Flower Essence is used by animal shelters and rescue homes. Used on horses with a history of having been abuses or mistreated as well as trauma or shock. Also good for horses after a loss of owner, surgery, frights or sudden disappointments. The positive potential of Star of Bethlehem is to neutralize the effects of trauma, whether immediate or delayed, thus helping the sufferer to recuperate.
St Johns Wort
Traditionally used for wound healing, moderates nerve transmissions, antiseptic, antidepressive, immunostimulant. St. John's Wort is thought to have antiviral, vulneray (wound & burn healing), nerve tonic, and antibacterial activities unparalled by any other herb. This herb could be used against a wide variety of bacteria, fungi and even viruses & retroviral infections. May be effective as a preventive measure in dogs who have been exposed to canine herpes or in cats, horses, or other animals suffering from a herpes virus. This herb will not cure the animal of herpes, but it may help keep the virus in check. Though I have no research to back it up, I also believe this herb could possibly be used in the treatment CAE in goats. Can cause photosensitivity (sunburn like rash). Keep animals that have light hair, white or pink skin, or a short coat out of direct sunlight if possible. FDA Caution: St. John’s Wort may reduce the effectiveness of certain prescription drugs and also cause adverse reactions. To be safe, do not administer this herb if already administering any prescription drugs.
Strawberry
Leaves help prevent abortion, fruit good for nervous or slow horses. Foliage good for show and racehorses. 2 cups of leaves or leaves and root daily or handful of berries daily.
Sweet Cicely
Horses love this herb. A good tonic. Crush some or bruise the root and hold in the hand, they will usually come to one. Native Indians used this trick to catch the wild horses. Note make sure you catch the right horse!
Tea Tree
Tea tree has traditionally been used by aboriginal horseman, brushing the branch of the tea tree bush across the back of a horse with Queensland itch. It is useful in a blend of essential oils for rainscald, ringworm, as well as in a wash for wounds to prevent infection.
Valerian Root
Calming and digestive actions. Helps relieve muscle tension. This herb is used in the powder form in our formulas as the dried root is extremely hard.
Vitex-Chaste Tree Berries
Effective hormone balancing herb, helps stimulate the production of progesterone. This is usually the hormone that is out of balance in comparison to estrogen production. This herb is also used in the powder form, as the dried berries are extremely hard. It has a natural brown appearance. Some animal experiments showing evidence of a dopaminergic effect. Not for use during pregnancy or nursing.
White Willow Bark
Used for arthritis,chronic joint pain,sore muscles, anti-inflammatory actions. This herb is used in the powder form, in our formulas. Usually horses get enough fiber by eating the barn and fences. Also young shoots and foliage given by gypsies for cattle and horses as a tonic.
Wild Yam
This valuable herb was at one time the sole source of the chemicals that were used as the raw materials for contraceptive hormone manufacture. In herbal medicine Wild Yam is a remedy that can be used to relieve intestinal colic, to soothe diverticulitis, ease dysmenorrhoea and ovarian and uterine pains. It is of great use in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, especially the acute phase where there is intense inflammation.
Wormwood
Useful for indigestion, gastric pain, and lack of appetite, as well as the related problems of heartburn and flatulence. Wormwood is an excellent anthelmintic and also an effective tonic for the whole digestive system. Be careful though - The oil of Wormwood is extremely potent and a tiny small dose can cause coma and death in an adult person. So when I speak of Wormwood, I am referring to the DRIED PLANT MATERIAL and not essential oil. The essential oil is extremely concentrated and should NOT be used.
Careful Use of Essential Oils
Use under the guidance of a trained and experienced aromatherapist.
Oils used externally can be toxic to certain organs (especially the liver) it is important to rotate oils every 4-7 days. We can not stress enough – work under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist.
Patch – test all blends before application, just dab a small amount onto the inside of the elbow. If itching or redness occurs dilute further. As your horse’s skin is much more sensitive than your own, NEVER apply essential oils to his skin undiluted.
Always remember the strength of essential oils, you will get a response to a 3% dilution if you have chosen the correct oils, there is no ‘fools’ measure. So adding extra drops ‘just to make sure’ does not work, it only exposes your horse to the chance of a negative reaction.
If your horse does have a reaction to essential oils or you accidentally get some in his eye, never use water to wash them off. Water will increase the irritability of essential oils to the skin, use your vegetable base oil or milk. The albumen content of milk will help dilute the essential oils and sooth the skin.
Never give essential oils to your horse to ingest, they are strictly for topical applications only.
Never use essential oils on a situation you have not had addressed by your Veterinarian first, he is the one to diagnose any problems and today many Vets are willing to discuss the use of complimentary therapies.
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