Image By TheCozyCoffee
If we used the descriptors, powerful and effective, which would you believe I was referring to: A.) herbs, B.) pharmaceuticals, or C.) both?
You might be surprised to learn that the answer is C. In our modern-day world, many people seek pharmaceuticals first because we’ve been conditioned to believe is best. But herbs can be extremely effective as well, and the good news is that they are associated with far fewer side effects.
That’s not to say that pharmaceuticals don’t have their place – for emergency situations, they’ve definitely proven their value. But for long-term conditions and even preventative care, herbs are usually a much safer option.
Pharmaceuticals have been around for nearly 200 years, which might seem like quite a while, but did you know healing herbs have been used for thousands of years? In fact, the first written record of medicinal plants was created on clay tablets over 5000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia. Interestingly enough, the list includes many herbs we still use today. Ancient cultures understood the power of nature—something many people seem to have forgotten about today.
And while pharmaceuticals may be the focus of scientific studies (often funded by the drug companies, themselves), their long-term effects are often unknown. Even their short-term effects have proven harmful or deadly, in some instances. Just watch any pharmaceutical commercial and you’ll hear a list of disturbing possible side effects near the end of the ad.
One potential side effect of many pharmaceuticals is their negative impact on the immune system. Corticosteroids are one example. This class of drugs works by mimicking hormones which help control inflammation, but they also suppress the immune system. Immune suppression may reduce symptoms, but it also makes the patient more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections. In other words, the immune system cannot work as it should and defend the body against other invaders.
Herbs, on the other hand, are often known for their immune-modulating effect. That is, they can to regulate the immune response and restore the body’s natural healing capabilities. Some herbs can even help boost the immune system, and these are often helpful in treating acute illnesses.
At The Holistic Horse, we offer ten different herbal blends designed for specific equine conditions. These formulas were created specifically for us by a leading equine veterinarian specializing in endocrinology, herbs, and nutrition.
They include:
- Bjute—Natural Pain Relief
- Gastrox—Ulcer Support
- Herbiflex—Joint Support
- Allergex—Allergy Support
- Breezee—Respiratory Support
- Balance—Natural Support for Hormonal Mares
- Vyrex—Natural Immune System Support
- Lymex—Support for Horses with Lyme Disease
- Osoleen—Support for Glucose Metabolism
- Zen Zone—Calming Formula
All of our Signature Line Organic Herbal Formulas range in price from $120-$135 and include free shipping. When compared to the cost of many pharmaceuticals (for example, Gastrogard which costs between $30-$50 per day), these herbs are often the more affordable option.
We also carry other individual organic herbs for a variety of health issues and immune system support for horses and other animals. These include slippery elm, cinnamon, Chaste tree powder, and garlic.
Sources: