As the temperatures drop and winter creeps in, horse owners face the seasonal question: Should I rug my horse?

Like many things in holistic horse care, the answer depends on multiple factors, from your horse’s breed and coat condition to their health, workload, and environment.

At The Horse Herbalist, we believe that nature’s wisdom combined with thoughtful management offers the best path. Let’s explore the pros and cons of rugging, so you can make an informed, horse-centred decision this winter.

The Pros of Rugging

Protection Against Wet and Windy Weather

While horses have a remarkable natural coat, constant exposure to cold rain and strong winds can chill even the hardiest. A waterproof, breathable rug can prevent rain scald and a wet coat that loses its insulating power, especially in regions prone to cold, wet winters.

Support for Clipped or Fine-Coated Horses

Horses that are body-clipped for work or competition lose much of their insulating winter coat. Similarly, finer-coated breeds (like Thoroughbreds or Arabians) often benefit from extra protection to maintain body condition.

Weight Management for Older or Vulnerable Horses

Older horses, those with underlying health issues, or horses struggling to keep weight on in winter may burn precious calories simply trying to stay warm. A well-fitting rug can help conserve their energy for maintaining condition rather than battling the cold.

Convenience for Busy Owners

A rugged horse dries faster, stays cleaner, and is often easier to groom and saddle in winter. For owners juggling work, family, and horses, a rug can save precious time during the short daylight hours.

The Cons of Rugging

Interference with Natural Thermoregulation

Horses are incredibly efficient at thermoregulation. Their winter coat grows thicker, traps air, and can fluff up or flatten depending on the temperature. Over-rugging can confuse their natural system, causing them to overheat, sweat, and even chill if the sweat cools against the skin.

Multiple Rugging

Try this yourself if you put 2-5 rugs on your horse at once. Put on your shirt, fits comfortably, then put on a large jumper, then put on a top coat which appears to fit snugly and does up to the neck. Feels fine until you go for a good walk, then keep the lot on for the rest of the day.  How do you feel? You can’t undo the neck closure, your big jumper has now pulled down your shoulders restricting your movement and making you sore, your shirt is wet with sweat. You’re not happy. Please keep this in mind.

Skin Health Risks

Rugs, especially if not regularly checked and adjusted, can cause rubs, sores, and fungal infections. A damp or dirty rug is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Behavioral and Emotional Effects

Some horses dislike rugs, feeling restricted or itchy under them. In sensitive horses, constant rugging can affect mood and wellbeing, creating low-level stress that goes unnoticed.  On the other hand my old thoroughbred positively beamed when he got his lightweight rainproof doona rug on in the cold weather.

Dependency and Muscle Loss

Constant rugged horses can become dependent on artificial warmth, leading to reduced muscle tone (especially if turnout is limited and they’re not in work). A horse naturally moving to stay warm promotes circulation, flexibility, and fitness.

Key Considerations Before Rugging

• Breed and Coat Type: Hardy breeds like Icelandics or Highlands often need little to no rugging compared to lighter breeds.
• Health Status: Young, elderly, or sick horses might benefit from additional support.
• Environment: Is there access to a sturdy shelter from rain, wind, and snow? Horses that can get out of the elements may not need rugs.
• Workload: Performance horses in active winter work may require clipping and appropriate layering.
• Daily Monitoring: Horses in rugs must be checked at least once a day (preferably twice) to adjust for changes in weather or conditions

The Horse Herbalist’s Approach: A Balanced Path

At The Horse Herbalist, we advocate for a mindful, responsive approach:

🌿 Allow horses to develop a full winter coat naturally wherever possible.
🌿 Provide field shelters, windbreaks, and plenty of forage to fuel their internal “furnace.”
🌿 Rug only when truly necessary — choosing lightweight, breathable, well-fitted options.
🌿 Stay flexible! Weather and horse’s needs can change daily

Remember, horses evolved to live outdoors year-round. They are far more resilient than we often give them credit for. By tuning in to your horse’s individual needs — not just the calendar or a set temperature — you’ll nurture a healthier, happier horse all winter long.

The post To Rug or Not to Rug? appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.

Here’s how to keep your horse’s hooves healthy through seasons of rain and flooding:

1. Access to Dry Areas

While mud may be unavoidable in some places, it’s crucial to provide dry areas for your horse to stand on.

• Use gravel, shavings, or sand in high-traffic areas like gateways and feeding areas.
• Provide shelter or dry standing areas with rubber mats or concrete for relief from constant moisture.
• Where possible dig drainage channels in prone areas to divert water away.

2. Pick Out Hooves Daily and Check Hoof Health

Mud can trap bacteria and debris, increasing the risk of infections like thrush.  Regular hoof care prevents minor problems escalating into major issues:

• Clean out your horse’s hooves daily.
• Look for signs of thrush, cracks, and bruising.
• Check for any signs of foul-smelling, black discharge (a sign of thrush).
• Apply a natural antibacterial hoof treatment if necessary.
• Some of our clients swear by covering the sole and coronet with Vaseline to repel the moisture
• Schedule regular trims with a farrier to prevent overgrowth and imbalance.
• Consider using hoof boots for extra protection if your horse is struggling with soft soles. Make sure they fit comfortably and check daily.
• Monitor for laminitis

3. Encourage Movement

Horses that move more have better circulation in their hooves, helping to prevent issues caused by excessive moisture.

• If possible rotate paddocks to prevent excessive mud build-up.
• Provide exercise to keep hooves healthy and strong.

4. Balance Moisture Levels

Overly soft hooves can become weak and prone to bruising and abscesses.

• Use hoof hardeners or natural drying agents like apple cider vinegar or Condy’s Crystals (readily available at most hardware stores) if hooves are becoming soft.
• Avoid excessive washing of hooves, which can weaken their structure.
• Maintain your dry standing area so hooves can dry naturally.

6. Support Hoof Health with Nutrition

Strong hooves start from the inside out. Ensure your horse’s diet includes:

• A good quality hoof supplement containing Biotin, zinc, and methionine
• Herbal supplements like nettle and rosehips to promote circulation and hoof growth.

Final Thoughts

While muddy conditions are inevitable in rainy seasons, proactive hoof care can prevent many common problems. By maintaining dry areas, encouraging movement, and supporting hoof health from the inside out, you can help your horse stay comfortable and sound all year long.

If you need natural hoof treatments or herbal support, check out our range of herbal supplements tailored for hoof health.

Let’s keep our horses thriving, no matter the weather!

Bug Buster – infection mix. Use internally at first sign of any suspected infection in the body. Boosts the immune system while targeting bacteria.

Homeopathic Hep.sulph 6c – use at first signs of an abscess, will hasten the process

Make your own Poultice

Homeopathic Arnica 6c – for bruising

Herbal Wound Spray – for any open wounds.  This fantastic formula is quickly absorbed and kickstarts the healing process.  Cover with a water repellent if ground is still wet.

Anti- Founder Formula – internal herbal extract for cases of Founder or Laminitis (also improves circulation).

The post Managing hooves in wet, muddy conditions appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.

What Are Hives in Horses?

Hives, or “urticaria,” are an immune response that results in raised, swollen, and sometimes itchy patches on the skin. In horses, these can vary in size from tiny bumps to larger patches that cover significant areas of the body. Hives can appear anywhere on the body, including areas covered by tack, and they may come and go or linger longer than usual.

Symptoms of Hives in Horses

Hives are generally easy to identify. Here are some signs to look for:

• Raised, soft bumps on the skin, ranging from a few millimetres to several centimetres.
• Itchy patches that cause the horse to rub against surfaces.
• Patches that may increase in size, spread, or merge over time.
• Occasional sensitivity to touch in affected areas.

Treating Hives in Horses

While hives may resolve on their own, treatment is often necessary to alleviate discomfort. Here are some traditional approaches:

1. Cool Baths: A cold water rinse can help soothe the skin and reduce itching. Aloe juice cab be added to the water to provide additional relief.
2. Fly Repellents: If insects are the culprit, using a natural fly repellent can reduce bites that might be causing hives.
3. Homeopathics: The Horse Herbalist has two specially formulated homeopathic preparations of pilules  Aptly named ‘Bities’ for reaction stemming from mosquito and other biting insects, and ‘Itchies/Hives’ for lumps and welts particularly. Lumps and welts will rapidly reduce using the above combinations.
4. Colloidal Silver: Dose internally 30-40ml twice a day. Use colloidal silver topically on the lumps and welts.
5. Identify and Remove Triggers: If possible, try to identify any new additions to your horse’s diet, environment, or routines that could be triggering the reaction. Removing potential allergens can help resolve hives more quickly.
6. Supplemental Support: If your horse is prone to skin reactions or has a chronic skin condition then the liver and the gut will be needing some support before a lasting result can be obtained. Our products Anti-allergen formula, Liver and Spleen Spring Clean and Immune Boost may be appropriate.

Common Causes of Hives in Horses

Understanding why so many horses are experiencing hives right now involves looking at environmental and seasonal factors. Here are some of the main culprits:

1. Allergens in the Environment: Seasonal changes can bring new pollen, mould spores, and insect bites. Horses can be sensitive to pollen from plants, trees, grasses or airborne allergens carried in the wind. Additionally, as temperatures drop or humidity rises, mould and mildew in stables and fields can increase, exacerbating allergic reactions.
2. Insects: Insect bites are a common cause of hives or itch. Mosquitos are the common culprits, midges, gnats, and other biting flies are active, particularly in certain areas. Some horses are hypersensitive to insect bites and can develop large, itchy welts from them.
3. Medications or Supplements: If you’ve recently added new supplements, vitamins, or medications, these could trigger an allergic reaction. Antibiotics, worm pastes, and vaccinations are common medications that may cause hives as a side effect.
4. Stress or Exercise: Occasionally, physical exertion or stress can be a contributing factor to hives. Competition season or a new training regimen can bring on physical stress, which may prompt an immune response in some horses.

Preventative Measures

To reduce the risk of hives recurring, consider the following:

• Manage the Environment: Regularly clean and ventilate stables to keep dust and mould to a minimum. Clean and rotate pasture areas, as certain plants may trigger allergies.
• Monitor Diet: Slowly introduce new feed or supplements, and keep a close eye on ingredients that have been known to cause reactions in some horses.
• Seasonal Adjustments: Adjusting fly and insect control measures for seasonal changes can also help prevent hives.
• Avoid Known Allergens: If your horse has a history of hives during certain times of the year, try to identify specific allergens and take measures to avoid them when possible.

When to Call the Vet:

If your horse is showing signs of distress, it’s best to consult your vet. Severe cases might involve complications like anaphylaxis, which requires immediate veterinary care.

The post How to help Horses with Hives appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.

The Rise of Supplements in Equine Nutrition

The popularity of supplements in horse care has skyrocketed, with a vast array of products available from all over the world on the market. Particularly concerning is the multitudes of products aimed at supporting the gastrointestinal tract, joint support and calming agents, not to mention vitamins and minerals. Horse owners are increasingly influenced by expensive marketing campaigns that capitalise on our love for our horses.  But most people don’t read labels or if they do, don’t understand the effects of the ingredients, which means that they can inadvertently give horses double doses of some ingredients, and can sometimes cause more harm than good.

These supplements may look and sound harmless but anything we ingest has an impact on both short and long term health. This includes various ‘natural products’ that promise to help.What might work for one horse might not suit another, highlighting the importance of individualised care.

The Benefits of Supplements

There are scenarios where supplements can play a vital role in a horse’s diet. For instance, older horses may require joint support, while performance horses might need additional electrolytes after rigorous training. Certain supplements can address specific deficiencies—like vitamin E in horses with limited access to fresh forage. Research and expert opinions often support the judicious use of these products when warranted.

Potential Risks of Over-Supplementation

However, giving too many supplements can be detrimental. Over-supplementation may lead to nutrient imbalances or toxicity. For example, excess vitamin A can cause serious health issues, while high levels of certain minerals can interfere with absorption.  Additionally, many horses may not need supplements at all if their diet is already balanced and nutritious. It’s also essential to remember that the horse’s gut still has to absorb and metabolise everything in their feed, which can put added strain on their system.  Our good intentions can cause harm.

Recognising Nutritional Needs

To determine whether supplements are needed, it’s essential for horse owners to evaluate their horses’ individual nutritional needs. Regular veterinary check-ups and consultations with independent equine nutritionists can help identify any deficiencies or specific dietary requirements. Professional equine herbalists can also provide valuable insights into natural supplementation options, ensuring that any herbal products used are appropriate for the horse’s specific condition.

Practical Tips for Horse Owners

Here are some practical tips for evaluating the need for supplements:

• Assess Diet: Regularly review your horse’s diet to ensure it meets their nutritional needs.

• Monitor Health and Performance: Keep an eye on your horse’s condition, energy levels, and performance. Changes may indicate nutritional needs.

• Consult Professionals: Work with veterinarians, independent equine nutritionists, or professional equine herbalists before adding the latest ‘on trend’ product to your feeding regime.

• Choose Wisely: If supplementation is necessary, select high-quality products and adhere to recommended dosages.

In conclusion, while supplements can benefit some horses, moderation and informed choices are key. Understanding your horse’s individual needs and maintaining a balanced diet is paramount to their health. Before adding any supplements, consider their specific requirements, and consult professionals to make the best decisions for your equine companions.

The post Are we giving our horses too many supplements? appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.

ALWAYS check the ingredients list of any supplements you are buying for your horse.

Gastric ulcers (EGUS) in the nonglandular squamous mucosa and glandular mucosa are common in horses involved in competition. Risk factors include intense exercise and dietary factors, such as high concentrate diets and periods of food restriction.

Gastric ulcers should be suspected if the horse shows one or more of the following signs:

• Unwillingness to perform as usual, including resistance to riding aids.
• Picky appetite.
• Transient colic signs directly after feeding, especially when feeding high grain feed.
• Dullness.
• Low Body Condition Score.
• Resistance to girthing.

A saliva test can be used to detect ulcers.

Your horse may be diagnosed with either EGGD – Equine Glandular Gastric Disease or ESGD- Equine Squamous Gastric Disease.  Omeprazole heals Squamous ulcers but not ulcers in the glandular portion of the gut so DO NOT SELF DIAGNOSE and potentially cause more problems for your horse.

If your horse is diagnosed with ESGD then a course of omeprazole will be between 30-60 days. Best practice is to start reducing the dose before finishing the course to try to reduce the rebound effect.

Long term use of omeprazole inhibits calcium and magnesium absorption.  It’s not proven yet in horses to cause fractures but this has been proven in humans. This will also hasten any deterioration in bones and joints. Long term use totally ruins any gut balance.

Make sure the horse has access to hay 24/7. Medicinal Aloe, linseed and chia are all mucilaginous, Slippery Elm powder given daily lines the entire gastro-intestinal tract. A low sugar diet is also advised.

Ongoing research shows pectin and lecithin combined with polysaccharides from medicinal mushrooms helps to stabilize and protect the intestinal mucosa, including the glandular region of the gut.

In summary – Use omeprazole judiciously.  Make sure you and your vet have a plan to allow the squamous ulcers to heal whist putting in place dietary changes and supplements to avoid the gut ulcerating again.

NEVER ride a horse who has an empty gut as it produces more acid.

The post The Use of Omeprazole in Horses (gastric & duodenal ulcers) appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.

HOW TO BEAT THE HEAT:

Ensure there is good shade and airflow available throughout the day, whether natural or manufactured. Tarps and shade sails can offer respite – whether strung up or draped.   If the horses are in stables or barns, use misters or fans.

Work as early in the day as possible or later in the evening if the temperature has dropped.

After work, or if the horse is hot in the paddock, hose down with cool water paying particular attention to the jugular veins in the neck and the saphenous veins on the inside of the hindlegs.
ALWAYS SCRAPE your horse down after hosing as even a light coating of water acts as an insulator to retain body heat. Repeat this if necessary.

Shade, hosing then scraping, with a breeze or a fan reduces core temperature quickly.

Offer fresh cool water AND water containing electrolytes. Let them choose which they prefer.

Days when humidity is high are even worse as humidity keeps the sweat from evaporating so the horse’s natural cooling system can’t be effective.

Overweight horses have a harder time dealing with high temperatures and humidity as added body fat acts as insulation.

If you can’t avoid working or competing in high temperatures do all of the above. Give homeopathic Glonoine to clear any head congestion bought on by heat and exertion. Hand walk for 15 minutes to stop muscle cramping.

WHAT NOT TO DO:

Rugs have their place but it is not on a horse on hot or humid days . . . the rug as acts as an insulator, trapping the heat and exacerbating the situation.  The horse’s core temperature increases and the heat cannot escape or sweat evaporate (horses prefer to be naked as nature designed!)  Do not leave the horse sweating under a rug.

Sweat serves an important purpose for both horses and humans – as the moisture of the sweat evaporates, the surface of the skin cools.

WHAT IS HEAT STRESS?  Know the signs . . . 

• Rapid shallow respiration, flared nostrils
• Look of anxiety
• Confusion
• High temperature
• High Heart Rate
• Massive sweating or no sweating
• Dehydration – do pinch test*
• Lack of coordination
• Trembling

* Pinch the skin (normally on the neck although shoulder is also recommended), if it springs back to flat rapidly, there is no problem.  But if  it is slow to restore (more than 3 seconds), your horse may be dehydrated.

In extreme cases call the vet.  Give homeopathic Aconite 6c. and Glonoine 6c. to reduce above symptoms – repeat dose every fifteen minutes. The homeopathics will not interact with any veterinary treatments which may be given. Stop dosing immediately when the horse shows improvement.

While waiting, use iced water, paying particular attention to the jugular vein in neck, the saphenous veins on the inside of the hind legs, behind the ears and face. Hose – scrape down – fan, repeat these steps every fifteen minutes until vital signs are normal and he’s cool to touch between the front legs. Hand walk for fifteen minutes to minimise muscle cramping then put in the shade with a breeze, mister or fan. Check frequently.

SEVERE HEAT STRESS can lead to:

•    Muscle cramping
•    Colic
•    Diarrhoea
•    Collapse – shock and death

Useful herbal teas to make and give the horses in hot weather are:

•    Lemon Balm
•    Chamomile
•    Elder Flower
•    Ginger
•    Peppermint

These can be added to water buckets and offered AS AN OPTION.  Always have fresh clean water with no additives available for horses to drink, especially on hot days.

These teas all have diaphoretic properties encouraging the body to sweat, the sweat evaporates enabling the body’s natural cooling system to be effective.

The post Help your Horse Beat the Heat appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.

There are many easily accessible articles on the physiology of laminitis, the healing power of ice and what to feed a Laminitic horse – like Dr Jennifer Stewart’s brilliant article here,  originally published in Hoofbeats Magazine.

Despite the dry winter in many parts of the country, there will be flushes of new Spring growth in the paddocks or you may have short frosted grasses, which are also high in fructans.  The liver is the primary clearing house for fructans so it needs to be in good order.

*The development stage of founder occurs 8 – 12 hours before acute pain presents.

*This is of ultra-importance that you recognise this early stage as this is when you can take immediate action and stop laminitis occurring.

What to look out for:

– Worried look around the eyes

– Looks Uncomfortable

– Unnaturally spooky (unlike normal)

– Not himself/herself

What to do – (even if unsure laminitis is the problem) or horse has foundered in the past:

– Whack those ice boots on – you need boots that come up to just below the knee and extend down over the feet. Research has reinforced empirical knowledge proving that if you cool the limb below room temperature acute laminitis is prevented.

– If you don’t have boots then stand your horse or pony up to knees in a flowing river or a dam.

– Buy a muzzle if you don’t have one

If you don’t have boots and your pony has foundered in the past then make them top of your list to purchase asap.

Causes of laminitis:

– Lush pasture including clover, high in sugars

– Frosted grass, high in sugars

– Grain overload

– Toxins in the body

– Systemic bacterial infection

– Endocrine related laminitis – high insulin levels in the blood

– Inflammation

– Overload of streptococcus bovis in the hindgut – this is implicated in lamellar separation.

If your horse progresses to acute founder then he’ll need box rest for a minimum of 4 weeks. Soft bedding (damp sand is best, some find sawdust is good if you have a local Timber mill).

Your horse must be able to lie down as this is the only time when blood circulates in the foot.

– Seek advice from your vet – they may prescribe ertuglifloz which treats hyperinsulaemia induced laminitis. Phenylbutazone can also provide relief.

– Engage the expert assistance of your farrier

An experienced equine herbalist can devise a treatment protocol to negate as much damage as possible, as well as supporting internal organs and systems as the body deals with intense pain, inflammation and resultant inaction.  In addition, homeopathic treatment can get on top of strep.bovis which is an under recognised agent for systemic infections.

The post Laminitis – Be Prepared & Act Fast! appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.

So why are we feeding products and supplements which go against the Law of Nature?

Horses are pure herbivores – their bodies are designed to eat plant material only. The herbivore species have flat grinding teeth and a very long digestive system specifically designed to break down tough cellulose fibre in plants. Horses have jaws which move sideways enabling grinding of plant material in the oral cavity – digestion begins here. Once the food is reduced in size and thoroughly mixed with saliva it’s swallowed, travels down the oesophagus into the stomach.

Horses are ill equipped to cope with the large quantities of fat that are sometimes introduced to their diets by the well-meaning owner. Long term studies have shown this may cause duodenal reflux, this is where caustic bile in the small intestine back splashes into the stomach triggering ulcers.

Herbivores only eat things that need photosynthesis to live. This excludes fish, sharks, cows, shell fish and products made from them.

A study in the U.S on human dietary fish oil supplements containing beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids were found to contain more than 30 different fatty acids, including 10 – 14 different saturated fats. Oxidization in the leading fish oil dietary supplements exceeded maximum levels established by the International Standards of Quality. Little is known about the potential biological effects of these oxidized lipids.

These data indicate that the levels of saturated fats and oxidized Omega–3 fatty acids may interfere with their intended/potential biological effects.

Bear in mind this study is raising question marks for the human population whose gut is set up to be able to metabolise far more fat, be it saturated or unsaturated, than the horses’ system which isn’t equipped to deal with fats or animal products.

Horses may eat animal products occasionally due to nutritional stress or lack of any other feed. However, most supplements on the commercial market containing animal material are well disguised to ensure horses find them palatable. They can be inadvertently disguised on the ingredients label also. After all, how many people could be expected to know that chondroitin and glucosamine are natural compounds found in the cartilage, trachea or tails of animals such as cows, pigs, sharks or shellfish. Plant based glucosamine is not so readily available.

If your horse sifts out some of these products or won’t eat their feed, then take the hint – don’t feed it.

It seems that even reputable companies look at the science behind a particular nutritional constituent and the way it may work within the body (usually data from human trials) whilst completely disregarding the Laws of Nature pertinent to the horse. Is this wise?

Are we looking at short term gain with possible long term pain from other areas of the body which may only show up over time. Some data suggests that herbivores fed animal products may develop organ disease, growth abnormalities, tumours or digestive disorders.

However, if you have an old horse who is joint sore then use any of these supplements to relieve inflammation and pain, quality of life is premium, possible long-term negative effects don’t apply to the oldies.

It’s undoubtably a difficult situation as some of the animal-based supplements can really improve arthritic horses as they do in humans and dogs. Short term trials have reinforced this.

The author cannot find any scientific data which supports that any of these animal based supplements act as a preventative for arthritic disease.

Authors note:

With my unique hair assessment system I get the horses I assess to rate all feeds and nutritional supplements because (just like humans), what suits one horse may not suit another. Rating is done on a scale of 0 – 10. 10 = perfect, 5 = average or not required, 0 = poison. 3 and below is damaging to the horse’s system.

I have rated over 10 thousand horses over 27 years. ALL horses have rated anything containing animal products 3 or below. I have had many client’s horses who have been diagnosed with unusual tumours, particularly in the gastro-intestinal tract. This led my investigation into common feed additives and their potential side effects in our beloved equine companions.

The post Horses are Herbivores (what’s in your feed?) appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.

This plant, a native of Mexico, loves conditions in Australia and like the cane toad it has no natural predators here. Biological controls have had limited success to date and funding for research is minimal.

Crofton weed is an erect, multi stemmed perennial plant which grows to 150cm in height. It’s extremely hardly, it layers itself and will sprout from any tiny piece of root left in the ground. It relishes poor soil conditions.

It has maroon smooth stems, the broad leaves are green and have slightly dog toothed edges, it develops dense clusters of white flowers in spring.

UNTRUE

It’s untrue that horses who are being hard fed or on good pasture will not eat Crofton Weed.

It’s untrue that Crofton Weed only harms horses when it’s in flower.

TRUE

It’s true that some horses will seek out Crofton Weed even when on otherwise good pasture or hard feed.

It’s true that Crofton Weed contains an addictive alkaloid. Crush a few leaves, stem and root to smell the carrot like odour.

It’s true that Crofton Weed is harmful to horses who ingest it at all stages of the plant growth though it is thought to be at its most toxic immediately after flowering.

It’s true that every mouthful causes internal damage.

Crofton weed should not be accessible to horses. It can be addictive, it is insidious as every mouthful causes damage to the bronchioles and lung walls.

By the time physical symptoms manifest, such as cough or breathlessness, much damage has already taken place. Crofton hardens damaged cells and lung walls ulcerate and crumble so basically the horse is asphyxiated – they stand with their neck stretched and hind legs camped out, all to try and get some oxygen as the lungs start to flood. They can run blind, collapse and die. It’s a truly horrible death.

Do not work horses who are coughing or breathless, get them thoroughly checked out by a veterinarian.Any exertion increases the possibility of blowing the lungs or the bronchial tubes.

There are some useful lung/respiratory herbs for those who may be slightly affected.  But if you have spotted Crofton Weed where your horses live or feed, and suspect they have or are eating, get them checked by your vet and take immediate steps to remove all plants.

Elecampane (Inula helenium) is my favourite  expectorant (lung dredger), it is also bronchial-spasmolytic, it’s specific to treat bronchial asthma and cough.

Liquorice (glycyrrhiza glabra) root – not to be confused with the commercial candy (made mainly from aniseed). Liquorice extract is a bronchial vasodilator giving more expandability to airways. It works synergistically with elecampane to treat bronchial asthma and cough.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – one of the best antibacterial, anti-microbial, antifungal herbs for the upper respiratory tract. Cough, sore throat, asthma.

Ask your qualified herbal practitioner to combine all three concentrated high-grade extracts only, this is the medicinal form to give best results.  

Any airways dis-ease will be improved by dosing with ginger and thyme tea.

Ginger Tea – Good for upset or underactive gut, bloat and travel sickness, plus its scientifically proven to be effective against the common cold. Use the fresh root only (source from greengrocers or supermarket). Finely chop 2-3cm – add 2 cups of boiling water – let cool then pour entire contents over feed. Once daily for a time, or a few times a week dependent on condition.

Thyme Tea – brilliant herb for the entire upper respiratory tract. Coughs, colds and sore throats. Ideally use 5-10 sprigs of the fresh herb or 2 teaspoons of dried. Add to 2 cups of boiling water – let cool then pour entire contents over feed. Can give 2-3 times daily reducing dose as symptoms improve.

You can combine the ginger root and the thyme in the same tea. Great for humans too!

Author’s note:
I learnt about Crofton weed the hard way. Over 30 years ago my partner and I purchased a bush block in northern New South Wales. This was before information was readily available at your fingertips via computers. On checking out the varying herbage I was told by several local horse people that horses only ate this weed if they hadn’t any other source of fodder. Wrong. We lost a wonderful, spunky mare with an enormous will to live. She searched for Crofton having become addicted to the alkaloid. Our two other horses didn’t touch it. I was horrified at how little was known and the dis-information I was given plus the veterinary treatment of antibiotics was inappropriate. Naturally my research into this insidious weed started then.

The post Crofton Weed kills Horses appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.

“We purchased Whisky May 2018, and he was already trained to pull a cart. Our trainer, Roger, worked with him for a couple of weeks and I was able to drive him happily enough before he came down with pneumonia.

“After several weeks hospitalized, bottles of medication and months of rest, he then contracted sinusitis. Back to the vets for surgery and more bottles of pills. Two months passed, and he seemed to getting back to normal before he again contacted sinusitis once again. Back to the vet, yet another surgery and yet more pills.

“The prognosis was not promising for poor Whisky. The hundreds of antibiotic pills were literally destroying his liver and preventing him for fighting any bacteria.

“Out of sheer frustration for the health and well being of Whisky, I looked elsewhere for treatment to be proactive and not reactive. I found an amazing herbalist, Angela Davison in Australia. She first analyzed a hair sample of Whisky then created a formula specific to his issues.

“Under Angela’s treatment program, along with chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture and thyme/sage tea 3 times a week, Whisky is doing spectacularly. After two months of building his stamina and doing stretch exercises daily, he is ready to pull the cart and looks amazing I might add. It’s not over for Whisky! We will continue with at least 14 more weeks of formula and herbal teas plus months of regular chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture.”

Here he is, after months of herbal treatments-

The post Whisky’s Story- Surgery, Infections but a Happy Ending. appeared first on The Horse Herbalist.