Holistic Horsecare

   You love your horse. You want the best for her, and just like yourself, you have growing concerns about all the chemical, non-natural, and downright artificial things that we put in our bodies, as well as our animals. Too often, things that are considered safe today turn out to be not-so-safe tomorrow. When you consider all the potential ailments that horses can have, and all the supplements and medicinal items in the marketplace, it makes sense to look for more natural and down to earth options. 
   And when you add the cost of all of these on top of the potential risks, then Holistic Healthcare is certainly worth learning more about!

   HorseNation offers the following on their top ten choices for horse owners interested in learning more about holistic horsecare and medicine:

"Did you know that herbs can be powerful aids to assist during healing for humans and animals alike? If you’ve been eager to learn more about holistic medicine, but not sure where to start, here’s a quick look at the top ten herbs to cut your teeth on.

These herbs offer good historical data and current research and can be easy to incorporate into every day practice:

1. Milk thistle/Silybum marianum

This herb has an excellent place in modern veterinary medicine for its ability to help the liver cells function and regenerate. Many animals are exposed to frequent use of drugs, leaving the liver in less than perfect shape.

2. Ginger root/Zingiber officinale

Ginger is in most kitchens and can be used to nausea from many causes, including motion sickness. It often helps with horses who do not eat while trailering, as this author believes these horses have motion sickness which does occur in all other species. If the horse loads onto the trailer well (not upset by trailering itself), but does not eat while moving (he may sweat or not) ginger will generally help settle the symptoms. Ginger can be given in cases of colic, especially when caused by cold weather or other exposure to cold.

3. Dandelion/Taraxaum officinale

Dandelion is a laxative and a diuretic and can be good for chronic colitis, as an immune stimulant and to increase the effects of insulin. It’s also well-known for its liver and kidney tonification and clearing. Horses crave the plants in the spring and will dig deep into the dirt at times to eat the roots at any time during the year if they really want the plant. Dandelion is well-known as a blood cleanser.

4. Tumeric/Curcuma longa

This herb is gaining in popularity as well as research. It has shown effects in inhibiting carcinogenesis, is a lypoxygenase inhibitor, protects the liver and has antioxidant effects. It is used frequently to support liver and cancer patients and is extremely safe to use."

Read the entire list: Entry Level Herbs: The Top 10 Picks for Intergrated Holistic Horsecare

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