Chamomile in horses
Chamomile is one of the most well-known herbs for calming horses. It is widely used in horses that experience stress or have a nervous temperament.
Chamomile is found in almost all of Europe, but also in North America and Australia. In Europe, mainly the true chamomile (Matricaria Recutita) is used, but in the rest of the world, the similar species Roman chamomile (Anthemis Nobilis) is also used. Both have a similar medicinal effect.
Matricaria Recutita (true Chamomile)
plant
Protection of gastrointestinal tract
- Antiseptic (external)
Medicinal properties of chamomile
The flower heads are used in dried form as an addition to the ration. Sometimes it is ground into powder, but usually it is fed as whole flower heads.
The ancient Egyptians considered chamomile, due to its fever- and inflammation-reducing effects, as the flower of the sun god Ra. Chamomile was also used in the past for digestive problems and against stomach cramps. Internally, chamomile has many healthy properties and helps to calm digestion, strengthen the stomach, and reduce inflammation of mucous membranes. Chamomile also calms the nervous system, emotionally relaxes, and prevents anxiety. Externally, chamomile can be very effective as an antiseptic and has a calming effect and helps against itching on the skin.
Using chamomile in horses
Stress supplements often contain chamomile, a combination of Roman and True chamomile is the best, as they complement and strengthen each other. But chamomile can also be given as a loose herb in dried form, horses enjoy eating this and it also has a calming effect.
Does your horse have inflamed eyes? Make tea from (organic) chamomile, let it cool down, and use it to clean the eyes. If you do this multiple times a day, you will see that the anti-inflammatory effects of chamomile contribute to the recovery of the eyes.