BEST HERBS AND NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR HORSES’ RESPIRATORY HEALTH

photo credit: Ellen Albiter

BEST HERBS AND NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR HORSES’ RESPIRATORY HEALTH

This is the Third (3) of Three Articles on Best Herbs, Nutritional Supplements and Foods for Pets. Namely, Dogs, Cats, and Horses.

We received an outpouring of questions during the January 2025 Series of Fires in the Los Angeles, California area on how people could help their dogs, cats and horses as well as themselves and their overall immune system health as well as respiratory health. These articles were written in response those questions and we hope that they can help you and your pets in this particular situation, or for overall health and well being each and every day.

Horses, being large animals with unique respiratory systems, can benefit greatly from natural remedies to support lung health, particularly if they are exposed to dusty environments, allergens, or strenuous activities.

Below are safe and effective options:

Safe Herbs for Horses:

Mullein

• Soothes respiratory tissues and helps expel mucus. Mullein can be added to their feed as a dried herb.

  Licorice Root

• Helps reduce inflammation and soothe irritated airways. It’s particularly beneficial for horses with allergies or chronic respiratory conditions.

  Thyme

• Acts as a natural expectorant and antimicrobial agent. Thyme can be sprinkled into their feed in small amounts.

  Echinacea

• Boosts the immune system and helps prevent respiratory infections. Use as a dried herb or supplement always under veterinary guidance.

  Peppermint

• Aids in clearing nasal passages and soothing minor respiratory discomfort. Peppermint leaves can be added to feed in moderation.

  Rosemary

• Rosemary supports respiratory health and provides antioxidant benefits. It can be used in small quantities.

  Garlic

• Garlic can support immune health and respiratory function in horses. However, it should be given in moderation to avoid potential side effects. Horses have very sensitive digestive systems.

Herbs to Use with Caution:

• Lobelia: Not recommended due to its potency and potential toxicity.

• Eucalyptus: Avoid ingestion; it’s best used in aromatherapy for horses just like for all other mammals we discussed here in our articles on Respiratory Heath.

Additional Nutritional Supplements and Foods for Horses:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Found in flaxseed and fish oil, omega-3s reduce inflammation in the lungs and improve respiratory efficiency.

  Vitamin C

• Supports lung health and immune function. Consult with a veterinarian for proper dosing.

  Honey

• Helps soothe irritated airways. Can be mixed with their feed in small quantities.

  Probiotics

• Promote gut health, which indirectly supports immune function and respiratory well-being.

  Alfalfa

• High in antioxidants and nutrients, alfalfa supports overall lung health and provides relief from respiratory irritation.

  Carrots

• Rich in beta-carotene, which supports lung tissue health. Offer as a treat or mix with their feed.

When incorporating herbs and supplements into your horse’s nutritional plan, always consult with a veterinarian and or an equine health expert to ensure safety and proper dosing. Just as with humans, dogs, and cats, natural remedies can complement the overall care of horses, helping to maintain their respiratory health and quality of life.

Since Humans have shared their lives for millennia with Dogs, Cats, and Horses and these animals in particular have evolved from Wolves, Panthers, and ancient species of horses and become domesticated by humans, we decided to include these top 3 animal brother and sisters species in our articles.

We will also share our Amazon Affiliates Link to our Page so that you can Shop there for any of these items all in one place referencing our article to make it easier for you.