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Using Herbs for Pet Health
by Dr. Larry Siegler
As the prevalence of chronic disease and immune deficiency continue to
rise in our companion animals, more and more guardians are looking for more
effective and safer methods of treating disease than are offered by
conventional medicine. Herbal remedies are a valuable tool in both
preventing and treating the issues that plague many of today’s pets.
The ancestors of our companion animals had inherent instincts that guided
them in foraging for plants and herbs to aid with healing of wounds or
illness or for discomfort such as digestive troubles, as well as sources of
important vitamins, minerals and trace elements needed in their diet.
Native peoples around the world learned about the use of plants and herbs
from watching wild animals. Though our companions are rarely able to forage
for the herbs they may be in need of any longer, with education and the
guidance of a holistically trained veterinarian, we can still help them
obtain optimal health and heal from discomfort and disease through the
proper use of herbs.
There are three main philosophies of herbal medicine; Ayurvedic Medicine,
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Western Herbalism. Ayurvedic
Medicine originated in India and the Middle East. Herbal remedies are
chosen based on an individual’s metabolic type or “dosha”, as well as the
symptoms or disease present. Traditional Chinese Medicine addresses the
body and healing in terms of the flow of energy or “qi” – which is the life
force of the individual. You may see references to dampness or dryness or
heat or cold involved in different conditions, as well as yin and yang when
studying Chinese herbal formulas. Western Herbalism is the youngest of the
three and has origins in the use of medicinal plants in Eruope. Like both
Ayurvedic Medicine and TCM, the body is viewed as a whole and the herbs are
used to stimulate healing from within, rather than simply suppressing
symptoms (although herbs can be used in this way).
Herbs come in a variety of forms including tinctures, capsules and
tablets administered orally, as well as tinctures and salves for topical
use. Herbs are also brewed into teas for administration both orally and
topically. Tinctures may be alcohol or glycerin based. Alcohol is
generally the best extractive, meaning that more of the beneficial
properties of the herb are removed, but glycerin tastes better so is easier
to get down an animal. Some small dogs and cats can be sensitive to
alcohol, so a glycerin base is sometimes preferred. Most herbal tinctures
made for pets will have a very small amount of alcohol, if any, and it can
be evaporated out before administration by either putting the dose into a
small shot glass and leaving it in the open air for 15-30 minutes or adding
the dose to a small amount of very hot water and then administering this
dilution after it cools. Tinctures are often preferred for cats and dogs as
they tend to be better absorbed. Some herbal formulas, however, cannot be
practically formulated in this way and are more easily dosed as capsules or
tablets.
Herbs can be used to treat specific illnesses or dysfunctions, somewhat
similar to conventional medication; matching the diagnosis or symptoms to
the herbal treatment. An example of this would be the use of milk thistle
for detoxification of the liver – a specific herb used for a specific
purpose. Some herbs are more valuable as adaptogens – having a tonic effect
that helps stimulate the individual’s intrinsic health and vitality.
Siberian ginseng is a frequently utilized adaptogen for older or weakened
animals. In many cases I will utilize both types of herbs in treating a
patient with chronic or acute illness. Adaptogens are also frequently
administered to help prevent degenerative conditions, illness or immune
deficiencies.
Many herbal formulas are available that clearly state the intended use,
taking some of the guess work out of choosing herbal remedies for your
companion. The variety of choices however, can be confusing, so when in
doubt seek assistance. Many holistic veterinarians offer phone
consultations which can save you a lot of trial and error, lost time in the
healing process and money in the long run by helping you choose the right
remedies initially and administering proper dosages. Also keep in mind that
the source of the herbs is important. Use herbs and formulas from reputable
companies only since the potency of herbal remedies can vary greatly.
A few things to keep in mind when using herbal remedies:
- Herbs take time to build in the system, so do not expect immediate
results. It can take from several days up to a week or more to know if
the herbal remedy is effective depending upon the severity of the issue
being treated and the overall vitality of the animal.
More frequent dosage – say 3 times per day, is typically more effective
than a large dose once per day. The herbs need to remain and build in
the animal’s system.
- Suggested dosages may need to be adjusted depending on the
individual’s response. If vomiting, diarrhea or other signs of
intolerance occur; a remedy should be stopped for two days, and then ½
the original dose can be administered to see if the lower dose can be
tolerated. If the animal does not respond to the initial dose, a larger
dose may be necessary. A VERY GRADUAL increase to up to 50% above the
original dose can be tried to see if results are improved. This should
be done with the guidance of a trained veterinarian or with a good
knowledge of the herbs you are using.
- Begin only one remedy or medication of any kind at a time. Do not
add another remedy until you have well established if there is a
response or are signs of intolerance from any other remedy being used.
(Unless you are working with a holistic veterinarian familiar with the
remedies prescribed).
- Herbs and natural remedies work best on an individual whose system
is given the best possible conditions for health and healing including
the healthiest and freshest diet possible along with proper nutritional
and digestive supplements such as digestive enzymes, essential fatty
acids and adequate levels of essential vitamins and minerals.
- Check with a knowledgeable veterinarian if your companion is on any
conventional medications that herbal remedies could interact with.
Reading:
Natural
Medicine Can Work Wonders
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