When dandelion and when detox for your horse?
In the wild, horses eat a wide variety of herbs, grasses, and trees. This way, they ensure they get plant-based ingredients that help eliminate waste products and keep their kidneys and liver healthy. Our horses have much less choice and variety in their diet. You can help your horse by offering herbal extracts that have blood-purifying and detoxifying functions. But which supplement should you choose?
Detox
Dandelion
27 May '24 • 1 min reading time
There are several herbs that contribute to the elimination of waste products and boost the digestion of horses. In this article, more about dandelion and a detox herbal blend.
Dandelion
An herbal extract of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is made from the entire plant, including the root. It is a mild extract that can always be given, even to pregnant mares. If your horse has mild digestive disturbances, such as occasional loose stools or excessive gas, dandelion can provide support. Also, if your horse works hard or experiences temporary stress, dandelion can be a good supplement to its feed. Dandelion helps remove uric acid crystals that form during high exertion and stress. These crystals lead to stiffness, so dandelion is a good support to keep your horse flexible during intense training or competitions. Removing uric acid is also important if your horse easily gains weight or suffers from insulin resistance. Horses that frequently exhibit a hard crest or suffer from summer itch can benefit from dandelion.
Detox
A detox is a compound product containing various herbs. The exact ingredients vary by brand. Often, herbs such as milk thistle, boldo, and turmeric are used in a detox supplement. A detox should only be given to a healthy horse. This is because a detox requires considerable energy and can be taxing, for instance, on the liver. During a detox, waste products are released that need to be eliminated. This is beneficial but requires energy and is not recommended for animals that are already sick or pregnant. A horse with PSSM or other liver-related issues should never be given a detox. For healthy horses, it is recommended to do a detox twice a year. This acts as a "major maintenance" for the immune system. By "flushing out" the entire system, you give your horse the cleansing it would naturally get from various plants in the wild. This detoxification leads to healthier skin and coat and increases your horse's resistance. The herbs in a detox help the body remove waste products accumulated in the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system of your horse.