Phytotherapy, which comes from the Greek words phyton meaning plant and therapeia meaning treatment, involves using the properties of plants to treat animals, particularly horses. This age-old practice has been modernized and integrated into veterinary care to offer natural alternatives to conventional treatments.
The different forms of phytotherapy for horses
Strict phytotherapy: plant extracts
Strict phytotherapy is the most traditional form. It involves using extracts of the various plant parts (roots, leaves, flowers, or sometimes the whole plant) after they have been dried to maturity. Once harvested, plants are subjected to extraction methods such as maceration, infusion or decoction to extract their active ingredients. These extracts are used in the form of herbal teas, poultices or powders. The most common plants in this category are garlic, aloe vera and blackcurrant, all of which have recognized health benefits for horses.
Gemmotherapy: the power of buds
Gemmotherapy is another branch of phytotherapy based on the use of plant buds. These are harvested just before they hatch and put into alcoholic maceration. Highly concentrated, these extracts require lower doses, but their effects are powerful. Buds contain a high concentration of active ingredients, ideal for treating a wide range of disorders, from joint problems to digestive disorders.
Blackcurrant bud, for example, is often used in gemmotherapy for its anti-inflammatory properties and beneficial action on blood circulation.
Aromatherapy: the use of essential oils
Aromatherapy is a form of phytotherapy that uses essential oils obtained by distilling plants. These oils are highly concentrated and powerful, and must be used with care. Depending on the horse’s pathology and breed, essential oils can be used orally, cutaneously, inhaled or even diffused.
Certain essential oils, such as lavender or chamomile oil, are commonly used to soothe horses in cases of stress or anxiety.
However, their use must always be precise and adapted to the horse’s specific needs.
Blackcurrant bud, for example, is often used in gemmotherapy for its anti-inflammatory properties and beneficial action on blood circulation.
The benefits of phytotherapy for horses
Phytotherapy offers a wide variety of health benefits for horses, acting on both the physical and mental levels. Here are a few examples of commonly used plants and their effects.
Garlic: for cardiovascular health and insect prevention
Garlic is a plant with many virtues. It is known for its beneficial effects on blood circulation, maintaining healthy blood vessels and combating high blood pressure. Garlic is also an excellent insect repellent, as the scent it gives off changes and repels flies and other parasites.
Seaweed: for digestion and coat quality
Seaweed, particularly those rich in alginates and iodine, are excellent allies for improving digestion and intestinal health in horses. They are also beneficial for coat and mane, making them shinier and healthier.
Note: their mild laxative effect can also help relieve constipation in horses.
Aloe vera: a skin-repair treatment for horses
Aloe vera is widely used in the veterinary field to treat minor burns and wounds. Its moisturizing and healing properties make it an ideal remedy for skin conditions such as dermatitis. What’s more, aloe vera can also be used to treat gastric ulcers, offering relief to horses suffering from digestive disorders.
Milk thistle: to support the liver
Milk thistle is particularly appreciated for its hepatoprotective properties. It is used to treat digestive disorders linked to insufficient bile production, and to support liver function in cases of acute or chronic hepatitis.
Echinacea: stimulates the immune system
Echinacea is a highly effective plant for boosting horses’ immune system. It is frequently used to treat respiratory infections and to promote wound healing by stimulating collagen production. Its ability to inhibit bacterial proliferation makes it a key ally in preventing infections.
Harpagophytum: to relieve joint pain
Harpagophytum, also known as “devil’s claw”, is a natural anti-inflammatory particularly effective in relieving joint and muscle pain, especially that associated with osteoarthritis. It can also be used to treat digestive disorders such as bloating and flatulence, and even to relieve tendon pain.
Valerian: a natural stress reliever
Valerian is an excellent remedy for stress and anxiety in horses. It is often used to calm nervous horses before transport or a stressful event such as a competition. Its ability to relax horses makes it an essential plant for natural stress management.
Some precautions to take with equine phytotherapy
Although phytotherapy is a natural approach, it must be used with caution. It’s important to remember that there are possible interactions between plants and conventional medicines.
Important: in the case of medicinal treatment, it is essential to consult a veterinarian before adopting a herbal treatment.
In addition, the plants used must be free of pesticides, herbicides and heavy metals to guarantee their quality and efficacy.