Old Wives’ Tales and Natural Remedies for Horses

Old Wives’ Tales and Natural Remedies for Your Horse

Throughout the history of horse care, owners, trainers, and veterinarians have relied not only on modern medicine but also on a rich tapestry of old wives’ tales and natural remedies. Whether born from necessity, observation, or experimentation, many of these traditions survive today, blending folklore with centuries-old experience. While some methods seem outlandish, others echo wisdom that science has occasionally validated.

Disclaimer

The following article presents natural remedies and folklore from horsemen and women over the decades. It is important to consult with a licensed veterinarian before administering any home or alternative treatment to your horse. Some remedies may require precise dosages or involve risks that professional guidance can best address.

Tobacco Leaves for De-Worming

One of the most persistent traditional remedies among horse keepers is the use of tobacco leaves as a natural de-wormer. This practice predates modern commercial deworming pastes, harkening back to times when chemical options were limited or unavailable.

• Horse owners, including a veterinarian with over 65 years of experience, have reported success in using organic, home-grown tobacco leaves added in small, carefully controlled amounts to feed as a means of parasite prevention and control.
• It is critical not to substitute manufactured tobacco products or chewing tobacco, as these contain additives and chemicals that can be dangerous to horses.
• The method requires careful regulation; excessive tobacco or the wrong plant part can be toxic. The exact safe amount and best preparation method remain closely guarded family knowledge in some circles.

Modern veterinary science remains cautious about recommending tobacco for deworming due to its toxicity and the availability of safer, tested alternatives.

Natural Herbs for Parasites

Herbal remedies have a longstanding role in equine health. Certain herbs are reputed to expel or prevent internal parasites:

• Peppermint: Not only a digestive aid but also believed to discourage parasitic infestations.
• Chamomile & Anise: Both contribute soothing effects and purported anti-parasitic properties.
• Thyme, Neem, Cinnamon, and Garlic: These herbs are said to create a gut environment unattractive to worms and other parasites.

Regularly adding the right mix of these herbs to your horse’s feed is thought to:

• Increase resistance to gastrointestinal parasites.
• Offer year-round protection as an alternative to or in rotation with pharmaceutical de-wormers.

However, precise proportions and long-term efficacy are not as well-documented as conventional methods, and overuse (especially garlic) can cause health issues. Always research dosage and consult with a veterinarian or herbal expert.

Copper Pennies for Ill-Behaved Mares

Moody behavior in mares, especially during estrus (“season”), has led to novel folklore fixes. One old wives’ tale suggests dropping copper pennies into the mare’s water trough as a behavioral remedy.

• The copper content in pre-1982 pennies—being mostly copper—was believed to release trace elements into the water that could moderate hormonal swings and discourage moodiness.
• The practice may have originated from the known antibiotic and water-cleaning properties of copper, as copper bits and pipes have been historically used to reduce water-borne contaminants and algae.

There is limited scientific backing for behavioral moderation, but horses benefit from clean, algae-free water supplies. If considering copper supplementation, monitor for copper toxicity and ensure pennies are genuine pre-1982 currency for maximal copper content.

Turpentine for Founder and Hoof Issues

Few remedies are as surprising as the claim that turpentine can treat founder (laminitis) by soaking up through the navel—an idea lacking scientific support. However, other uses for turpentine, rooted in horse care tradition, remain:

• Hoof hardening: Applying turpentine to the sole helps toughen the hoof, particularly in cases of sore or thin-soled horses.
• Antiseptic action: Turpentine is sometimes used in modest amounts to combat thrush, white line disease, and bacterial infections in hoof tissues.

Application should be judicious and always avoid caustic injury to the sensitive frog and coronet. Veterinary-approved hoof care products are usually safer, but the legacy of turpentine treatment persists in horse barns the world over.

Devil’s Claw for Joint Pain Relief

The root of the devil’s claw plant (Harpagophytum procumbens) is used by some horse owners to address joint pain and inflammation. This plant, common in traditional African medicine, is believed to:

• Reduce discomfort in older horses with osteoarthritis or chronic joint rigidity.
• Act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, sometimes supplementing or replacing NSAID medications.

As with all herbal preparations, dosing, sourcing, and individual reaction matter. Not all horses will tolerate devil’s claw, particularly those with ulcers or in foal. Professional advice is strongly recommended before use.

Other Traditional Remedies and Practices

The spectrum of folkloric equine care extends well beyond the preceding five items. Horse owners have passed down various other natural and unconventional solutions:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Added to feed or water for purported immune support, coat shine, and digestive health.
• Honey: Applied topically to wounds for its antibacterial and healing properties.
• Molasses: Used to encourage eating or mask medication, but should be fed in moderation due to sugar content.
• Linseed Oil (Flaxseed): Added for coat quality and digestive regularity.

While these remedies are generally considered safe when used properly, they are not replacements for modern veterinary medicine when your horse is injured, sick, or in pain.

Safety and Cautions for Natural Remedies

Natural does not always mean safe. Before administering any home remedy, remember:

• Dosage is crucial; too little may do nothing, but too much can be toxic.
• Purity and source of the remedy can alter efficacy and risk profile.
• Some natural compounds interact negatively with medications or pre-existing conditions.
• Monitor your horse for allergic or adverse reactions.

When in doubt, consult with a qualified equine veterinarian or nutritionist. Record what you try and document any changes in your horse’s wellbeing for future reference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use tobacco leaves from the store for my horse’s de-worming needs?

A: No. Store-bought tobacco or processed tobacco products often contain additives that are harmful to horses. If you use tobacco leaves, they must be pure, organically grown, and used only under precise guidelines.

Q: How effective are herbs compared to chemical de-wormers for horses?

A: Some herbs have proven anecdotally effective in reducing parasite burdens, but scientific evidence and dosage data are far less reliable than conventional chemical de-wormers. Always research and consult a professional for optimal parasite control strategies.

Q: Does putting copper pennies in water really affect mare behavior?

A: Scientific consensus is lacking for this practice’s impact on mare behavior. However, the release of trace copper may discourage algae growth in water buckets, potentially contributing to cleaner water.

Q: Is turpentine safe to use on horses’ hooves?

A: When applied externally and sparingly, turpentine may help with hoof hardening and as an antiseptic. However, excessive application or use on sensitive tissue can cause harm. Rely on modern, veterinarian-recommended hoof treatments for serious conditions.

Q: What are the side effects of devil’s claw supplements for horses?

A: Horses with gastric ulcers, certain pre-existing health conditions, or those who are pregnant should avoid devil’s claw. Monitor for digestive upset and consult an equine professional before use.

Tips for Exploring Natural Horse Remedies

• Research Thoroughly: Dig into both the folklore and science behind each remedy before trying it on your horse.
• Start Small: Use a minimal test dose first and monitor your horse carefully.
• Consult Experts: When possible, discuss plans with a holistic veterinarian or certified animal herbalist.
• Keep Records: Track what was used, how much, and what changes (positive or negative) you notice.
• Combine Wisdom: While natural approaches have value, combine them with regular veterinary care, parasite control, and good nutrition for comprehensive horse health.

Conclusion: Wisdom and Caution

The enduring popularity of old wives’ tales and natural remedies in horse care reflects the deep relationship between horses and humans. While some traditions persist due to genuine effectiveness, others linger as reminders of a time before science could offer safer, evidence-based cures. Use common sense, seek expert advice, and trust your observations as you explore the blend of folklore and modern advances in equine health and horsemanship.