There are a wide variety of natural remedies that Xena can use to care for Argo when the need arises. In fact it is likely that Xena carries many with her for use general use for her and Gabrielle as well.
Allergies:
Garlic
, an expectorant, encourages the expulsion of irritants such as dust, spores and pollen from the lungs.Anemia:
Nettles,
a plant rich in iron, is also rich in Vitamin C, which is vital for the absorption of iron.Arthritis/Rheumatism
Celery Seed,
Burdock and Nettles, all help to cleanse the blood, clear uric acid from the joints and improve the circulation.Brood Mares
Rosehips
(for Vitamin C)Nettles (for iron)
Seaweed (for all vitamins, minerals and trace elements) and
Fenugreek (a digestive tonic) will help the pregnant mare get all the nutrients she needs in a natural form easily assimilated by the body.
Bruising
Arnica
is the supreme herb for bruises. Use it homeopathically, or use Arnica tincture externally as a compress or liniment. For stone bruises, soak the affected foot twice a day in a solution of Arnica tincture, water andWitch Hazel
.Coat and Skin
Cleavers
and Red Clover are two blood-purifying herbs that will improve the condition of the skin and, ultimately, the coat. As an all around aid to skin and coat conditionKelp is excellent.
Gastric Ulcers
Marshmallow
Root is high in mucilage and ideal for use where there is irritation or inflammation; a specific for gastric ulcers, colitis.Hoof Quality
Rosehips
and Seaweed are often combined to stimulate and strengthen hoof growth.Immune System
Echinacea
, Garlic and Astragalus are all capable of strengthening the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells. Use them preventatively, or during and after a course of antibiotics.Inflammation
Devil's Claw, Meadowsweet, Willow
and Chamomile all have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is the body's way of creating heat and stimulating the blood supply. Anti-inflammatory drugs suppress inflammation; anti-inflammatory herbs strengthen and support the body's responses so healing can commence.Liver Problems
Milk Thistle
is the herb of choice for improving liver function, protecting the liver from chemicals and pollutants in the environment, even helping to repair damaged liver cells.Over-Excited
Valerian, Chamomile, Hops
and Vervain all have calming, anxiety-reducing qualities but will not make the horse drowsy or groggy.Panic Attacks
Rescue Remedy
, one of the Bach Flower Remedies, is invaluable in times of stress and anxiety. Give 4 drops on a lump of sugar or apple.Soft Swellings
Comfrey
is ideal for any kind of soft swelling.Comfrey ointment speeds the healing process in wounds
Comfrey oil may be used to massage swollen, strained muscles, tendons and ligaments.
Ruta Grav tincture, applied locally twice daily, can help damaged tendons.
Stall Rest
Chamomile
and Valerian will relax the nervous system, help relieve tension and anxiety. Lavender oil, a few drops on a piece of cloth attached to the halter can have a calming effect.Filled Legs
Dandelion
, or any diuretic herb, can help remove excess fluid from the bodyParsley, Couch Grass, and Cleavers are other useful herbs
Nettles, a circulatory stimulant, will help to cleanse toxins by increasing blood flow to the affected area.
Wounds
Garlic
or Echinacea should be given internally to help the horse fight any infection that might result from the wound.Goldenseal and Myrrh are useful wound healers.
(Above remedies found at A Drop in the Bucket: http://www.dropinbucket.com
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