Kicks, bites, and injuries are an inevitable part of horse ownership. Arnica is one of the top "must have" herbs in any herbal first aid kit.
Arnica, a small daisy-like, yellow flower, is known by several common names including Mountain Tobacco, Wolfsbane and Lepordsbane. Arnica Montana is the variety most commonly used in America and in commercial perpetration. Arnica has long been used medicinally in America and Europe for injuries and traumas of all sorts, from shock to fractures. Arnica significantly reduces inflammation, prevents bruising, and speeds healing. Arnica is certainly a handy remedy to have in any stable!
Arnica excels in the treatment of bruises of all types. Just rub it on the affected area. For bruised soles add Arnica tincture to your soaking bucket or soak paper towels with arnica liniment for use inside hoof boots. EasySoaker boots would be the perfect soaking boot for this....better than a bucket, any day!
Tendon strains also respond well to Arnica soaked paper towels applied under wraps. Topical applications of Arnica cool down hot laminitic feet and soothe arthritic joints. Diluted with water, Arnica makes a revitalizing bath after workouts or long trail rides.
Never, never give your horse Arnica tincture by mouth. You can get many excellent preparations at your local health food or natural food stores.
Check out a recent article in Trail Blazer magazine, August 08 issue. Gloria Garland, the author of Equine Acupressure Therapeutics, gives a recipe for "make it yourself".
To learn more about Chinese herbs and horses, visit www.wholehorse.com .
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