Herbal remedies are growing in popularity-but how can you be sure you're getting what's best for your horse?Herbal remedies are finding their way into more barns around the country as trainers seek drug-free alternatives to combat conditions as diverse as degenerative joint disease, bucked shins, bowed tendons, and colic.
A relative newcomer to the American veterinary scene, herbal medicine has a long history in other parts of the globe. In the United States, which has seen a growing trend toward holistic therapy in general, horsemen have turned to herbs in the last decade for a variety of reasons, including the desire to treat problems without running afoul of stringent drug-testing policies at competitions.
But in the midst of the herbal trend, how can you be sure you're getting what your horse really needs?
Whether based on Chinese, European, American, or Ayurvedic (Indian) herbology principles, most herbal remedies are mixtures of from five to 15 different herbs, noted Joyce Harman, D.V.M., a holistic equine veterinarian in Washington, Virginia. "Usually they will have one or two herbs that have a primary action, and most of the rest of the herbs in the formula support that action. You may also have one or two herbs that will do what we call 'harmonize,' or bring everything together so it works as a unit, especially in Chinese formulas," Harman said.
If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to conventional therapies, remember: Herbals are not always cheaper. They can cost $48 a pound-or more. "Chinese herbs are not cheap," said William McCormick, V.M.D., a sport-horse veterinarian in Middleburg, Virginia."For example, you can treat a musculoskeletal problem with herbs cheaper than you can with Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycans), but not as cheaply as with Bute (phenylbutazone)."
Remember, too, that herbal medicine tends to be a little slower-acting than conventional medicine, for example. "You won't necessarily have results in the first two days," said Harman. "But if it doesn't work in a month to a month-and-a-half, you should stop spending your money."
Herbal medicine also should not be expected to replace conventional medical care, caution experts, who say that incorporating Western and herbal methodologies is the most helpful route.
The best way to begin any herbal therapy is to consult an equine veterinarian experienced in choosing and using herbal formulas.
While herbs grown in China have a reputation for quality, it is not necessary to use only these herbs, holistic specialists say. American- and European-grown herbs can also be useful.
They may be "natural," but herbal remedies can cause harm if misused. Some compounds' elements can disrupt horses' delicate digestive tracts, while others may contain substances such as black walnut that are toxic to the horse. So before you embark on a course of alternative treatment with herbs, read the labels and ask questions of your herbal supplier and equine veterinarian.