This collection brings together dried herbs that you mix into your horse's or pony's daily feed: single herbs such as psyllium, chamomile and nettle, and ready-made blends for summer and winter. Below you can read how to choose and what to look out for.
Single herbs and blends
The herbs come from Excellent Horse Herbs. As single herbs there are aniseed, nettle, fenugreek seed, calendula, chamomile, cleavers, turmeric (with black pepper), monk's pepper, beetroot, rosehip, thyme and psyllium, plus hemp flower in pellet form. The Summer Mix and Winter Mix each combine around ten herbs; exactly which ones is stated on the label.
Do you like rewarding with a herbal flavour? The Sweet Blocks Herbs, also grain-free, are treats and not an addition to the ration. You will find them in horse treats and rewards.
How to choose
- Single herb or blend: with one herb you know exactly what you are giving and can easily leave it out again. A blend is simpler if you want to give one scoop a day.
- Packaging: most herbs come in bags from 500 grams to 1 kilo. Psyllium is also available in 2.5 and 17 kilo, handy if you have several horses.
- Horse or pony: the label states a separate amount for horses and ponies for each product. Some bags include a measuring scoop.
- Form: loose herbs or pellets (hemp flower), which are less dusty.
Points to note
Herbs are feed materials or complementary feeds, not medicine. If your horse has symptoms, first have your vet take a look before you add anything yourself. Read the label carefully: for turmeric, for example, it states that use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended. If your horse competes, check beforehand which ingredients are permitted there. Start with one product at a time.
You will find more additions to the ration in all horse supplements, such as vitamins and minerals, hoof and coat supplements and respiratory products.
Frequently asked questions
How do I give herbs to my horse?
Mix them into the daily hard feed or a wet mash. Stick to the amount on the label; it differs per herb and is lower for ponies than for horses.
Can I give different herbs at the same time?
You can, but start with one product, so you know what your horse is reacting to. If you are unsure whether a combination is sensible, consult your vet.
What is the difference between the Summer Mix and the Winter Mix?
They are two blends, each with a different set of herbs, intended for different seasons. The composition is on the label of each mix.
Can I give herbs to a pregnant mare?
Not every herb is intended for that; for turmeric, the label advises against use during pregnancy and lactation. For a pregnant or nursing mare, always ask your vet first.