Herbals
These
products have become very popular in today's marketplace, both with
humans and horses. Since ancient times, herbs have played a strong
role in the medicine of many cultures around the world.
Herbs are defined as any plant that can be put to culinary or medicinal
use and include those we associate with orthodox drugs, such as opium
poppy, and everyday plants such as garlic, ginseng and sage. One of
the key elements of herbal treatments is that they work towards an
overall restoration of harmony and balance of the elements in the
body. Specific combinations of herbs are used for their individual
properties. For horses, herbs are commonly given in a dried form that
can be added to the feed, making the entire meal therapeutic. The
effects of herbal treatments on the body is quite dramatic, and generally
attributable to a naturally occurring chemical within the plant. Herbs
need to be treated with respect. Not all companies offer full disclosure
of the ingredients in their products, many of which are blends. Are
there fillers added? What is the strength of the herbs? Can you give
your horse too much? Herbals are medicinal and should be administered
with the advice of an herbalist or qualified health practitioner or
veterinarian.
Users should be aware that some herbs, such as Valerian, have been
banned from use by both the AHSA and the CEF. Consult with your relevant
association to check before competition.
GAGs?|MSM?|Herbals?|Vitamins
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