BASIC HERBAL TREATMENTS FOR HORSES
Eyebright grows wild in the meadowlands for easy free grazing. This plant is used extensively for conditions of the eye such as inflammation, weeping or stinging The eye-catching Golden Rod plant, solidago virgaurea is a common weed in several countries. Digestion of the leaves and flowering tops is helpful for urinary infections and kidney stones. It also helps digestion.
Horseradish grows wild in Eastern Europe but can be easily cultivated in the United States. This is a powerful aid against internal parasites and can be used as a poultice, as well, for windpuffs.
Mints are known for their digestive aid properties. There are many varieties of mints that are easily grown and proliferate. It is used as an additive to many horse feeds because of its relaxant actions on the digestive tract. The oil is wonderful for diminishing flatulence and colic. Mint can also be used to help dry up milk in nursing mares.
Mullein is another very common roadside and pasture weed that compliments the actions of Comfrey in its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Nettle brings memories of stinging pain after coming in contact with the leaves. It grows throughout the world and is a rich source of Vitamin C, Iron, Sodium, Chlorophyll, Protein and dietary fiber. It is an excellent remedy for anemia because of its iron and Vit. C properties. Some horses may react with a "nettle rash" but this rash usually disappears within 24 hours.
Tea Tree Oil, Melaleuca alternifolia, although not grown wild in pastures, should not be left out of this useful list of herbal treatments. Tea Tree Oil is available throughout the world and is highly effective for treating minor cuts, abrasions and external parasites. When a few drops of oil are mixed with water, the spray makes an effective Fly repellant. Tea Tree Oil is highly effective for Rain Scald and other bacterial or fungal skin conditions. SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN INTERNALLY!
There are many other herbs and natural growing flowers and plants which are highly beneficial for almost any equine physical ailment. Again, it must be stressed that there are some botanical plants that are harmful or poisonous to horses. Some of these are: Devil's Claw: should not be given to pregnant mares. Red Clover: a trifoliate, too much Red Clover can be toxic for horses. Rosemary: should not be given to pregnant mares. Also, contains oil such as thymol and camphor that if found in the blood
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