When it comes to providing pain relief for our horses, there are a variety of options available. One of the most common traditional pain relievers is phenylbutazone (bute) which can be purchased through your veterinarian. However, the problem with bute and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications is that they can have negative side effects. Bute is especially harmful to the lining of the stomach and intestines and can lead to ulcers when used too often.
Fortunately, there are many herbal and natural alternatives to bute that can be used to relieve pain in horses, especially when it comes to chronic pain stemming from arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions.
The following herbs or natural ingredients have all been shown to reduce pain and inflammation related to a variety of equine conditions:
- MSM
- Turmeric
- Devil’s Claw
- Boswellia
- White Willow Bark
You can find the above ingredients sold alone or as part of an herbal blend for a stronger pain-relieving effect in some instances.
Equine Pain Relief options from The Holistic Horse
The Holistic Horse carries several natural pain-relief products for horses. For example,
MSM Ultra Pure Powder for Horses is best known for its ability to fight inflammation. Derived from DMSO or dimethylsulfoxide, MSM is an organic sulfur compound naturally found in fruits, vegetables, grains, as well as fresh forage.
MSM also naturally occurs within the bodies of all vertebrates, where it helps create methionine, an important amino acid for forming connective tissue, metabolizing foods, and absorbing nutrients. As our horses age, however, sulfur levels in the body decrease. Levels can also drop during times of stress or when consuming a low-nutrient diet. Therefore, supplementing with MSM during these times can be helpful.
Another pain relief product for horses that we carry is Bjute—Natural Pain Relief for Horses. This product is a complete herbal alternative to bute that provides relief for pain and inflammation but without the harmful side effects.
Bjute contains the following ingredients:
- Organic Boswellia: (also known as Frankincense) Analgesic, anti inflammatory. Studies conducted show Boswellia’s anti inflammatory properties are as powerful as those found in aspirin and ibuprofen, without the side effects.
- Organic Fenugreek: A favorite flavor of horses! Dissolves mucus, anti inflammatory, antiseptic, expectorant. Helps strengthen the respiratory system, mucous membranes and sinus congestion. Soothing to the gastrointestinal system. Aids in reducing blood sugar and supports healthy metabolic function in insulin resistant horses.
- Organic Ginger: Digestive aid. Its properties promote the elimination of intestinal gas and prevent flatulence. Helps relax the gastro intestinal muscles to soothe an upset stomach. A powerful anti inflammatory effective in treatment of acute and chronic inflammatory disease.
- Organic Stevia: A natural sweetener, anti bacterial, anti oxidant, promotes proper digestion, contains potassium zinc, magnesium and vitamin B3.
- Organic Turmeric: (The main active substance is curcumin). Anti inflammatory, anti fungal, anti bacterial, anti oxidant, anti viral. Also beneficial for digestive issues, fevers, cleansing, infections, liver problems and arthritis. Studies done comparing Turmeric with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications ( NSAIDS) found that Turmeric was as or more effective in treating inflammatory conditions.
- Organic White Willow Bark: Considered by many to be a “natural aspirin” and nerve sedative without the side effects of pharmaceutical drugs. Also contains anti inflammatory, antiseptic and antispasmodic properties.
If your horse is dealing with a chronic painful condition, check out natural herbs and supplements before automatically reaching for bute!