It can often be hard to find alternative health treatment for dogs. However, you don’t want nasty chemicals from medication building up in your body, so why would you want that for your furry friend? These herbs can help alleviate pain, soothe the digestive system, and contribute to healthy joints so that your dog can live a happy, healthy life…totally naturally.
Milk thistle
Many prescription medications prescribed by the vet can impact your dog’s liver and prove detrimental to his health and wellbeing. Milk thistle actually boosts liver health and can protect your dog from the harmful effects of these drugs while stimulating the growth of new cells in the liver. Use a milk thistle supplement approved for dogs if your pet has a preexisting liver condition or is compromised due to medication. This is not an appropriate remedy to give “just in case,” but rather should be viewed as a treatment for a known compromised liver.
Goldenseal
If you are looking for an herb with powerful antibiotic properties, you’ve come to the right place. Goldenseal is a potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent as well. This is a great herb for fighting off any kind of infection and it is gentle enough to be used as an eyewash for weepy eyes and conjunctivitis. Simply simmer the dried root in water 10 minutes. Let it cool to room temperature (make sure it’s not hot!) and apply it with a compress. You can also place 20 drops of this cooled tea in a saline mixture and use it on the affected eye up to three times per day.
Ginger
Just like humans, dogs can get an upset stomach every once in a while. If your dog is constipated, has diarrhea, lots of gas, or vomits on car trips, you might want to consider ginger. It can help settle the stomach and stimulate the digestive juices while encouraging proper function of the digestive system. Peel and finely mince the root and mix into your dog’s food. Use ¼ tsp for miniature breeds, ½ tsp for dogs up to 35 lbs and ¾ tsp for large dogs. Keep in mind, ginger can act as a blood thinner so it is best to avoid using it if your dog has an upcoming surgery
Comfrey
Comfrey is most commonly used in place of painkillers to help alleviate soreness. However, it is only to be used in external applications as it could prove harmful if ingested. Don’t panic if your dog licks off a small amount, however, as it is only dangerous in large amounts. Compounds known as allantoin and rosmarinic give comfrey its unique healing powers by speeding cell-reproduction and relieving joint pain. Apply comfrey salve to the affected area and wrap in a loose bandage to prevent your dog from licking it off.
Turmeric
Talk about a super spice. Turmeric has recently risen in popularity in mainstream health circles and is becoming more and more recognized as a viable supplement to help treat many conditions. Naturally, it is beneficial for your dog as well. It acts as a potent anti-inflammatory and is a great daily supplement to add to your pet’s food. Make a turmeric paste and add ¼ tsp a day to your dog’s food for every 10 lbs of his weight. Be sure to buy medicinal turmeric when using it as a supplement and consider incorporating black pepper as well to help increase the absorption rate.
Slippery elm
Another digestive wonder, slippery elm great to have on hand when your dog shows any sign of tummy troubles. It forms a natural coating of the digestive tract that can soothe inflamed bowels and help alleviate constipation, dysentery, diarrhea, and colitis. Plus, it is full of vitamins A, B, C and K, calcium, magnesium, and sodium, making it an excellent daily supplement for older dogs that are beginning to develop health issues. Mix the capsule, syrup, or powder into your dog’s food.
Valerian, Chamomile and California Poppy
When combined, these potent relaxant herbs can help reduce some of your furry friend’s anxiety and tension. Of course, there is no substitution for exercise and playtime so make sure that you are spending a good amount of time with your dog in concentrated efforts to eliminate that energy. However, even with tons of exercise, some dogs just still have a naturally frantic personality. Use just a few drops on his food if you notice your dog is bouncing off the walls even after that three-mile run.
Devil’s Claw
Due to the nature of dogs and their active lifestyle, many will develop arthritis as they age. In order to keep your pooch running and jumping for as long as possible, try including devil’s claw in his food. This African plant is an effective anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent and can soothe sore joints. Human studies have shown it to be an effective arthritis treatment, and it is highly beneficial for dogs as well.
Garlic
Garlic, when given in your dog’s food, will release oils into his coat that can help repel fleas and ticks. It can also help detoxify the body and prevent infection due to its potent antibacterial and antimicrobial compounds. Always use freshly chopped, organic garlic.
Remember, if your dog has any preexisting health conditions or if you are unsure of the recommended dosage of a particular herb, always consult with your veterinarian before beginning supplementation. Herbs can be potent should always be used with care.