Holistic Treatments For Common Health Issues In Horses

Holistic treatments for horses can have all of the benefits of conventional medications without the harsh side effects. Whether used for preventative care, daily support, or to treat illness and injury, many horses respond well to these gentle therapies and natural remedies.

Holistic Treatments For Allergies In Horses
It’s common for horses to develop allergies to foods, chemicals, insects, fabrics, and plants in their environment. They may experience skin allergies, which manifest as hives or itching, or respiratory symptoms, which present as wheezing, coughing, sneezing, and clear, watery discharge from the eyes and/or nose.
Your first priority should be to learn about your horse’s allergies and minimize their exposure to allergens. Your veterinarian may conduct an intradermal allergy test or you can try the at-home 5Strands Pet Intolerance Test. Sometimes you can discover an allergy just by taking note of any changes in your horse’s environment or routine.
Exposure to some allergens can be inevitable. If your horse suffers from an allergy to pollen or fly bites, they may experience intense symptoms in the spring and fall. You can help your horse cope with allergen exposure with a holistic treatment like Yucca Intensive. Yucca schidigera is a natural source of steroidal saponins, a powerful anti-inflammatory that helps manage the immune system response associated with allergic reaction.

Homeopathic Anxiety Management In Horses
Anxiety can affect your horse’s performance, harm their digestive system, and detriment their overall well-being. While all horses experience some level of anxiety, especially during travel and with changes in their schedule or their surroundings, it can be managed to help them feel their best. Amino acids in Perfect Prep products can help your horse feel more calm, relaxed, and focused. 

Managing Pain & Inflammation With Holistic Treatments
Lameness is common in all horses, but athletic horses that perform repeated maneuvers or run at top speed are the most vulnerable. Any signs of pain, inflammation, or injury must be evaluated by your veterinarian. Once your horse has a diagnosis, you can support their recovery with holistic remedies.
T-Relief is a homeopathic product that combines the power of arnica and twelve other medicinal plants to naturally reduce pain and inflammation. It’s often used as an alternative to NSAIDs, and it’s more gentle on the digestive system.
Joint supplements are essential for athletic and riding horses of all ages. In arthritic horses, they can help slow the deterioration of the joints. In younger horses, they can aid recovery from injuries. Look for supplements that contain glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, which are the building blocks of joint tissue that are naturally produced in the body. Arthrisoothe Gold is a great choice for performance horses and those with arthritis.
Flaxseed, whether in the form of a supplement or by adding ½ cup daily to your horse’s feed, is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids to support your horse’s joint, skin, and coat health.
Other natural therapies for horses include TENS treatment, ice baths, chiropractic care, massage, and acupuncture.

Starting Holistic Remedies For Your Horse
While holistic remedies are generally safe and do not cause severe side effects, they should be introduced one at a time, preferably at a half-dose so you can monitor your horse’s reaction and assess what’s working best for them. Some holistic remedies can have negative interactions with conventional medications. Always talk to your veterinarian before trying a new holistic remedy.