Herb Index
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is used externally to treat various skin conditions such as cuts, insect bites, stings and burns. It is alleged that sap from Aloe Vera eases pain and reduces inflammation to painful joints.
Arnica
Arnica increases local blood supply and accelerates healing. It is anti-inflammatory and increases the rate of absorption of internal bleeding. Used for relief of bruises, stiffness, and muscle soreness.
Benzoin
This medication is used on the skin to prevent germs from growing, to coat minor sores and to protect and disinfect the skin. Benzoin is an ingredient of Friar's Balsam which is widely used.
Cajeput
Considered an excellent antiseptic, and with its antifungal properties, it is especially useful for skin diseases. It has a cooling influence on the skin and its marvellous pain-relieving properties provide relief for numerous muscle and joint problems.
Camphor
Camphor is readily absorbed through the skin and produces a feeling of cooling similar to that of cajeput. It acts as a slight local anaesthetic and microbial substance once applied to the skin tissue. Unfortunately camphor cannot be used prior to and during competition.
Celery seed
The extract of celery seed is believed to help clear toxins from the system, and has been used and suggested as an alternative therapy for arthritis, rheumatism. Celery seed has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and pain around the joints, easing discomfort and supporting better mobility.
Comfrey
Externally, comfrey is used for bruises, sprains, and the promotion of bone healing. It is used on blunt injuries.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an immune booster, increasing the level of white blood cells. Especially useful for infections of the upper respiratory tract including catarrhal conditions of the nose and sinus. A mild antibiotic that is effective against staphylococcus and streptococcus infections. Improves the migration of white blood cells to attack foreign micro-organisms and toxins in the blood stream. Improves upper respiratory infections and increases anti-viral activity against influenza.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus oil is a strong antiseptic, its expectorant properties are useful in bronchitis and other respiratory complaints.
Fennel
Traditionally used for spasmodic gastrointestinal complaints such as flatulence and colic. Both the seeds and the root are appetite stimulants and help soothe the digestion.
Garlic
Includes immune stimulating, antioxidant and anti-microbial activities. Helps the body fight off infections and enhances the body’s defence against airborne infections. Also includes anti-parasitic properties.
Geranium
Historically geranium oil has been used in skin care remedies, to treat wounds keeping infections at bay and promoting speedy healing. Has fly repelling qualities.
Ginger
Ginger stimulates all tissues of the body and is fantastic for poor circulation. Has the ability to decrease inflammation in joint pain from problems such as arthritis.
Liquorice root
Encourages the production of hormones such as hydrocortisone, helps the adrenal glands function more smoothly in conditions of stress and exhaustion. Contains Glycyrrhizin 50x stronger than sucrose. Protects against peptic ulcers commonly found in competition horses.
Marjoram
Marjoram oil can be used for the stimulation of appetite, to promote digestion, strengthening of the stomach, for acute and chronic gastritis, as an antispasmodic, for flatulence, for colic-like nervous gastrointestinal disorders and for the general support of intestinal activity.
Neem
Formulations made of Neem oil have wide usage as a bio-pesticide for organic farming, as it repels a wide variety of pests. The oil has been extensively tested in Edinburgh, on the Highland midge, by a team of leading experts who concluded that midges have highly sensitive antennae and could detect Neem oil from the air, preventing the midge from biting.
Nettle
Rich in iron and vitamin C (vitamin C ensures iron is properly absorbed). Useful for iron deficiency, anaemia and lethargy, helps strengthen blood capillaries, good for bleeders.
Oat seed
Used to stimulate the nervous system, oat seed contains high levels of vitamin B, minerals and other nutrients. It can be used to treat depression, stress and nervous disorders.
Palma Rosa
Moisturizes the skin, while balancing the hydration levels and stimulating cell regeneration. It balances production of sebum, to keep the skin supple and elastic and is valuable for use with dermatitis, preventing scarring, rejuvenating and regenerating the skin, as well as fighting minor skin infections.
Peppermint
Peppermint oil is an excellent digestive aid. Peppermint oil eliminates gas, bloating and abdominal cramps, improves circulation and the production of digestive fluids.
Yarrow
The plant has a long history as a powerful 'healing herb' used topically for wounds, cuts and abrasions. Use externally as a wash for eczema and to encourage blood clotting.
Yucca shidegera
The primary medical use of yucca is to treat arthritis and joint inflammation. The plant's medical properties are found in saponins, precursors of cortisone, which prevent the release of toxins from the intestines that restrict normal cartilage formation.
Pro-Equine – caring for your horse naturally.
