Which herbs support summer eczema?
Many people see nettle as a weed, but for horses, it is truly a fantastic herb! It purifies the blood, supports the immune system, and is good for the gut flora. A real all-rounder that is also tasty for horses. For horses with summer eczema, this herb is extremely important! The blood-purifying effect makes horses less attractive to mosquitoes, as fewer waste products in the body mean less enticing blood. Additionally, optimal immunity is important for horses with summer eczema. The better the immunity, the fewer inflammatory reactions in the body, and the better the horse can withstand insect bites. Nettle also has another wonderful healing property; it has an anti-histamine effect. This means it works anti-allergically and is therefore perfect to use for summer eczema. You can give fresh/dried nettle, but for the most powerful medicinal effect, it is recommended to give a liquid nettle tincture.
Sweet itch
27 June '22 • 4 min reading time
Fenugreek = immunity
The seeds of the fenugreek plant have medicinal properties and can be used as whole seeds or as powder. It was always thought that fenugreek is good for the respiratory system, but that is not really the case. Fenugreek is important for overall immunity, and when immunity improves, it may be that respiratory problems decrease. Fenugreek has antipyretic properties, stimulates appetite, and has a soothing effect on (stomach) mucous membranes. In horses with summer eczema, fenugreek is important for overall immunity. The function on the gastric mucosa is also important, as horses with summer eczema often experience stress, which can lead to stomach ulcers.
Sepiolite = filtering the body
Sepiolite is not an herb, but a mineral compound. It is sea foam of magnesium-silicate that can bind to substances. Sepiolite is therefore a filter for the body, leaving magnesium in the body and carrying waste out of the body. Sepiolite is also good for digestion, as it absorbs moisture. For horses with summer eczema, sepiolite is important because it helps filter waste from the body. And the cleaner the body, the fewer inflammatory reactions and thus less itching.
Echinacea = immune boost
Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is known for its significant medicinal properties. When someone has a cold or flu, they are often quickly referred to Echinacea. Echinacea is indeed a huge boost for the immune system and helps improve immunity. Additionally, it has antibacterial properties and stimulates the lymphatic system. Never use the Echinacea that grows in the garden, but always an extract. Echinacea is related to ragwort, which can cause liver damage with high or prolonged use. For horses with summer eczema, Echinacea is important not only because it boosts immunity but also because it stimulates the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is crucial for the removal of waste products, allowing the horse to recover more quickly from insect bites.
Astragalus = anti-histamine
Astragalus is an unknown herb for many people, but this plant has numerous benefits for both humans and animals. It belongs to the same family as licorice and peas, and its medicinal properties are found in the root. Astragalus helps the body achieve balance and promotes self-regulation. An overactive immune system is calmed, while insufficient activity is stimulated. Thus, astragalus actually influences the body's self-healing ability. For summer eczema, astragalus is also beneficial, as it has an anti-histamine effect, making it effective for allergic reactions. Additionally, it helps to balance blood sugar levels.
Uncaria = strengthen immune system
Uncaria (cat's claw) is extremely important for the immune system. Its effectiveness significantly increases after the application of this herb. It combats bacteria, viruses, fungi, worms, and other parasites. The number of white blood cells increases, which determines the effectiveness of the immune system. Additionally, uncaria is anti-inflammatory, improves circulation, and is an antioxidant. Therefore, it is a very important herb for horses with summer eczema! Allergic reactions cause inflammation under the skin, leading to itching. Uncaria helps to reduce this inflammation, thereby decreasing the itching and allowing the skin to heal. As an antioxidant, it also helps protect cells from free radicals.
Gentiana = digestive support
Gentiana, or yellow gentian, is primarily used to support digestion. It promotes bile production, stimulates appetite, and improves intestinal peristalsis. The intestines are the engine of the horse, from which a large part of its resistance comes. For horses with summer eczema, this is therefore a nice, supportive herb.
Thyme = for respiratory and digestive system
Thyme, or thymus, is a flavorful herb that is widely used in the kitchen, but it also has significant medicinal properties. Thyme has disinfectant effects and wards off infections, thereby improving overall resistance. Additionally, it helps to dissolve mucus in the respiratory system. For horses with summer eczema, this herb is important for digestion, but also for the respiratory system. An allergy always affects the entire body. There is not only itching, but it can also cause respiratory issues as a side effect.
Citronellol/Citronellal = unattractive
Citronellol and Citronellal are not herbs, but substances (terpenes) that occur naturally in lemongrass, roses, and geraniums. It has the well-known citrus scent, making it a common ingredient in anti-fly products and, for example, scented candles. Citronellol can also be used internally (only through a supplement, never in pure form!). It then serves a dual purpose; firstly, these substances make the blood of animals indigestible, preventing insects/parasites from using it for reproduction. But for horses with summer eczema, it has an additional function. Horses will excrete the scent, causing mosquitoes and flies to keep their distance. As a result, horses will be stung less often.
Provide a supplement with a combination of these herbs
Nettle can be given in pure form for an effective, supportive function in summer eczema. The other herbs/substances work best in combination with each other. They enhance and complement each other. Giving only thyme, for example, will have no effect on summer eczema, but when included in a total supplement, thyme contributes to the overall effect. Giving just one herb to support the skin is pointless; resistance, the immune system, the lungs, and digestion are equally important.
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