Maintaining optimal horse lung health is vital for performance, stamina, and overall wellbeing of these energetic and active companions, respiratory efficiency can have a drastic effect on comfort and capability. Natural, plant-based horse supplements can offer a powerful way to support the respiratory system.
Horses that participate in strenuous exercise, especially thoroughbred racehorses, are susceptible to Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Haemorrhage (EIPH), a condition where fragile capillaries in the lungs rupture during intense exercise, causing blood to leak into the airways, commonly referred to as ‘bleeders’.
If you're seeking natural, holistic options to promote clear breathing and respiratory resilience, consider these time-tested ingredients often found in high-quality horse vitamins and minerals blends:
Rosehips:
Rosehips are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system, a crucial component in maintaining strong lungs. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, rosehips support healthy respiratory tissues and can contribute to improved horse health and wellbeing.
Hawthorne:
Hawthorne is well known for cardiovascular support; the leaves and berries can be used as a circulatory and heart tonic. It offers support to irregular heartbeat, heart shock, arteriosclerosis and to balance blood pressure. Hawthorne contains high levels of Rutin (Vitamin P) a bioflavonoid of the same group as Vitamin K and C, whose primary role in the body is to maintain the blood and constituents as well as adjust blood flow. This can lead to improvements in circulation but also useful in treatment of heart strain and bleeders.
Elecampane:
One of the best, if not the number one, antiseptic respiratory herb, it can be used in the treatment of all respiratory infections or allergies affecting the lungs. Due to its high levels of mucilage content is very soothing and is very helpful in healing scarred or weak lungs, removing old infective material and mucus. It is also the plant with the highest level of Inulin which is a natural prebiotic that supports a healthy gut-microbiome that can balance the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Nettle:
Nettle is a great inclusion for respiratory health, it is very high in Iron as well as Vitamin C, Nettle’s task within the body is to raise the red blood cell count, improve oxygenation of the blood and stimulate arterial flow. Nettle acts as a natural antihistamine to help reduce allergic responses and respiratory discomfort caused by environmental allergens.
Rue (Ruta Graveolens):
Though lesser known, rue has a long history of use as a respiratory aid. It acts as a gentle expectorant and helps maintain lung tone. In small, carefully formulated amounts, rue contributes to the overall synergy of natural horse supplements aimed at respiratory wellness.
Celery Seed:
Celery seed supports healthy fluid balance and acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, helping reduce congestion in the lungs. It’s also rich in antioxidants and possess antimicrobial properties making it a great addition to any horse health supplement.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is one of the most powerful natural anti-inflammatories available. Its active compound, curcumin, can help soothe airway inflammation, which can be especially helpful for horses exposed to dust and pollen. This popular herb is great for supporting lung function and joint health simultaneously.
Choosing the Right Horse Supplements
When shopping for horse supplements, look for blends that combine these herbs in safe, synergistic formulations. The best natural products provide balanced horse vitamins and minerals to support the entire body, because healthy lungs rely on a healthy horse.
Supporting your horse’s lungs with herbs like rosehips, hawthorne, and turmeric may help your horse breathe easier, recover faster, and perform at their best. Whether you're managing a chronic condition or simply aiming to prevent respiratory stress, these natural ingredients offer gentle yet effective support.
Check out 1Equine Lung Maintenance liquid and concentrate paste for your horse.
