Look to the Past: Herbal Solutions for Horses

The horse we know and love today is quite different from their ancestors. They are faster, stronger and live completely different lives than the wild horses that roamed before them. 

And we can’t forget they live on an entirely different planet. Poor air quality and rising temperatures brought a whole new layer of challenges for horses, including allergies and respiratory issues that seem to become increasingly worse with time. As these health concerns became more common, so did the use of cortisone and other “quick fix” steroid-based drugs.

While conventional medicine has its place —  especially in emergencies — it's not always the best long-term solution. Today, more research is exposing the downsides of relying on pharmaceuticals, and we’re starting to see a return in nature’s remedies. 

In this article, we’ll dive into the problems with conventional medicine and why herbs remain a powerful tool in equine medicine. 

Why Herbal Remedies Have Stood The Test of Time

In ancient times, horses foraged off the land and walked miles to find the plants they needed to stay healthy. As we domesticated them, their diets shifted. Grain and oats became the norm, and eventually, commercial feeds took over in the twentieth century. 

But somewhere along the way, herbs were left behind. 

And yet, herbal remedies were trusted for centuries by some of the earliest medical professionals around. As Hilary Page Self writes in A Modern Horse Herbal, “ A few months' trials in a modern laboratory, carried out in unnatural conditions, can scarcely compare with centuries of study, documented evidence, and successful practical application on both humans and animals.” 

Herbs have truly stood the test of time. They’ve been part of the care and routine for horses for centuries, long before we came up with synthetic solutions. And only recently are we rediscovering how powerful these plants can be. 

The Problem with the Quick Fix

Conventional medicine is essential, but it shouldn’t be the only solution. Why? Because pharmaceuticals often focus on short-term symptom relief, rather than long-term wellness. 

Take Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), for example. A 2022 study found that overuse and high doses of NSAIDs can lead to serious side effects — like gastric ulcers, right dorsal colitis (which affects the large intestine), and kidney damage. 

Here’s why: NSAIDs help relieve pain and reduce inflammation by blocking certain chemicals in the body. But the problem is, they also block the good chemicals that protect the stomach, kidneys, and intestines. So, while they can temporarily relieve pain, they don’t fix the root issues and they can cause new problems in the long run.  

Some NSAIDs, like phenylbutazone (often called “bute”), are way more damaging. However, newer drugs, known as COX-2 selective NSAIDs are designed to be gentler on the stomach and kidneys. But keep in mind, they still need to be used carefully. And always always, consult with your vet before giving any drug to your horse [1].

Healing Herbs for the Modern Horse

Simply put, herbs focus on addressing the root cause, not just masking symptoms [2].

Let’s say your horse feels stiff during a ride. You might notice them resisting work or showing tension when grooming and saddling. This soreness is often caused by inflammation in the muscles. And, if it's not addressed, it can lead to more serious injuries down the road.

The quick fix would be to give them a prescription painkiller, like bute or Equioxx to temporarily mask the pain. But each day the pain prevails… Instead, adding an herb such as turmeric to their feed or complete omega supplement can be incredibly beneficial as each is a powerful anti-inflammatory that helps reduce inflammation and supports long-term recovery, thus addressing the issue at the source.

Herbs are also beneficial for digestive health, especially for managing gastric ulcers. Research shows that herbs like slippery elm, chamomile, and meadowsweet can have gastroprotective effects [3].Slippery elm, for example, is a demulcent — meaning it can soothe the stomach lining and reduce stomach irritation. 

And don’t forget immune health! Herbal remedies can support the immune system, help with allergies, improve skin health, and boost respiratory function. Antioxidants like echinacea, rose hips, and spirulina help reduce stress on the body and keep your horse feeling like their best self [4]. In some cases, allergies go hand in hand with inflammation. That’s why antioxidants like rose hips are helpful due their ability to support the immune system and inflammation caused by allergies.

A Simple Way to Get Started with Herbs 

If you’re new to herbal remedies, you’re not alone! We’ve made it easy to get started. Below are two products, out of an entire line of products, that consist of only whole food and herbal ingredients specifically selected for their many scientifically-proven benefits to the equine system.  

For a simple, all-in-one solution, try Inner Glow Omega Booster. It’s packed with Omega-3 fatty acids that strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support your horse’s overall health. Not to mention, you’ll see a huge improvement in your horse’s coat! It combines powerful herbs and antioxidants, such as chia seeds, rosehips, fennel seeds, and more! Additionally, the naturally occurring mucilage content in the blend can help soothe and prevent gastric ulcers. Being a rich source of fiber, Inner Glow Omega Booster also promotes healthy gut flora and helps to ease symptoms of fecal water syndrome as well. 

And for horses with allergies, Pure Allergy Relief is a great place to start. While steroids and antihistamines are often relied on, they’re just another “quick fix” that masks the symptoms and neglects the root cause. Pure Allergy Relief combines antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying components that support your horse’s respiratory health and balance histamine levels, naturally. Some of the powerhouse ingredients include spirulina, spearmint, nettle, and milk thistle. 

An Ode to the Past

Herbs aren’t a new trend, they’re an old wisdom that still works. That said, always prioritize your vet’s advice when it comes to medications, as they are prescribed for a reason. If you're interested in exploring herbal solutions for your horse, it’s important to approach the subject thoughtfully and responsibly. Before introducing any herbal remedies or supplements, discuss them with your veterinarian. They can provide insight into the effectiveness and safety of specific herbs, as well as any potential interactions with prescribed medications.

Your vet may also suggest holistic approaches that complement conventional treatments. This way, you can develop a comprehensive care plan that takes into account all aspects of your horse's health. Herbs offer a range of benefits that can support your horse's overall wellness without the potential long-term harm that pharmaceuticals may pose. By incorporating herbal remedies, you can tap into nature's bounty to promote vitality, aid digestion, and improve immune function. And remember, horses were designed to thrive on plants! 

Sources 

1. Flood J, Stewart AJ. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Associated Toxicities in Horses. Animals (Basel). 2022 Oct 26;12(21):2939. doi: 10.3390/ani12212939. PMID: 36359062; PMCID: PMC9655344.

2. Goyal MR, Chauhan A. Holistic Approach of Nutrients and Traditional Natural Medicines for Human Health: A Review. Future Integr Med. 2024;3(3):197-208. doi: 10.14218/FIM.2023.00089.

3. Lexie Reed a, et al. “A Botanical-Based Equine Nutraceutical Reduces Gastric Smooth Muscle Contractile Force in Vitro.” Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, W.B. Saunders, 11 Nov. 2019

Williams CA, Lamprecht ED. Some commonly fed herbs and other functional foods in equine nutrition: a review. Vet J. 2008 Oct;178(1):21-31. doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2007.06.004. Epub 2007 Aug 8. PMID: 17689992.