Herbs and Horses: Benefits of Herbal Supplements for Equines

Herbs have been valued for centuries as natural remedies, and while herbal supplementation for horses is a newer trend, it offers numerous benefits worth considering for equine care. It's essential to remember that herbs should never replace veterinary treatments but can complement them, supporting a horse's health, wellbeing, and recovery.

Calming Nervous Horses with Herbal Supplements

Many horses experience nervousness or stress, which can affect their behaviour and performance. Herbal supplements containing calming herbs can help ease anxiety over time, making a noticeable difference after about four weeks of consistent feeding. Popular calming herbs include:

• Chamomile
• Valerian
• Vervain
• Hops

Horses for sale owners often use these herbs, especially vervain for mares prone to premenstrual tension (PMT). These herbs soothe nerves gently without dulling alertness or physical capability, promoting a balanced temperament.

Supporting the Immune System Naturally

Echinacea is widely used in herbal supplements for horses to boost the immune system. This herb stimulates the production of red blood cells, which improves oxygen transport in the blood. This effect is particularly beneficial for performance horses, including racehorses, as it aids recovery from intense physical exertion.

Herbs Aiding Digestive, Urinary, and Respiratory Health

Maintaining the health of the urinary, digestive, and respiratory systems is crucial for a horse's overall wellbeing. Several herbs are helpful in these areas:

• Liquorice Root – reduces inflammation in the airways, soothes coughs, and has antiviral properties.
• Fenugreek – a nutritious digestive tonic that supports weight gain, soothes gastric ulcers, and aids in recovering from lung infections.
• Calendula (Marigold) – contains antiseptic properties that help fight infections.
• Mint, Rosehips, Dandelion, Nettles, Goosegrass, Hawthorn – common meadow herbs that support general health.

Slippery elm powder is also valuable as it soothes inflammation inside and outside the body and can be used in poultices for wounds or infections. It is a helpful remedy for conditions like foal scour and digestive upset in older horses.

Treating Respiratory Issues with Herbs

Respiratory problems are common in horses and ponies, often requiring long-term management. Herbal blends formulated for respiratory support typically include:

• Garlic
• Hyssop
• Boneset
• White horehound
• Chamomile

Such mixtures can alleviate symptoms and support healing in chronic respiratory conditions.

Herbal Support for Arthritis in Horses

Arthritis can affect horses of all ages, sometimes appearing as early as three years old. Certain herbs may ease discomfort and inflammation when given over a period of weeks. Common arthritis-supporting herbs include:

• Dandelion
• Comfrey
• Burdock
• Nettle
• Devil's Claw

Combined with proper exercise and a fibre-rich diet, these herbs can improve mobility and comfort in arthritic horses.

Responsible Herbal Supplementation

When integrating herbal supplements into a horse's diet, it is essential to use reputable products and consult an equine veterinarian or herbal specialist. This ensures safe, effective use tailored to the horse's individual health needs and avoids potential complications or interactions with medications.

Furthermore, herbal supplements should complement, not replace, a balanced diet and good management practices, including regular exercise and veterinary care.

Conclusion

Herbal supplements offer a natural way to support various aspects of horse health, from calming nerves to aiding digestion, boosting immunity, managing respiratory issues, and easing arthritis discomfort. Used responsibly alongside veterinary guidance, herbs can contribute to a happy, healthy, and well-balanced equine companion.