One of the most widely discussed topics around horse health is food.

Today, we focus on alfalfa, a nutritional source that often leaves horse owners with questions because there are so many conflicting opinions on when and how to use it and the right amount to feed. 

Join me as we tackle common misconceptions surrounding alfalfa and shed light on the ins and outs of incorporating it into your horse's diet.

Diverse Uses of Alfalfa

Horse owners can use alfalfa for many different purposes. Some use it to provide extra calories during the winter, while others use it to help their horses gain weight. Some owners like to use alfalfa as a source of energy to enhance a horse’s performance and contribute to muscle building. Others claim that using alfalfa prevents issues like chronic diarrhea and fecal water syndrome in their horses.

The Equine Microbiome

Horses get their energy from fermenting fiber. Alfalfa may help with issues like chronic diarrhea or fecal water syndrome because it impacts the tiny organisms in the microbial populations of the hindgut. I spoke about the equine microbiome in Episode 10, so you can go back and listen to that episode to refresh your memory if you need to.

Toxicity Issues

Diets high in alfalfa can lead to potential feed toxicity issues, like leaky gut, due to the shift in microbial populations and increased body acidity caused by those diets. You need to know the horse's history and monitor the amount and duration of alfalfa feeding to avoid complications. 

Understanding Alfalfa as a Forage

Contrary to common belief, alfalfa is a legume and is not part of the grass family, a difference that impacts its macronutrient composition. With a protein content ranging from 14 percent to 25 percent, alfalfa can be a valuable supplement for horses. It does contain a high lignin content, making it less digestible and less efficient than grass as an energy source.

Alfalfa as a Protein Supplement

Despite its limitations as an energy source, alfalfa shines as a protein supplement for horses. Horses with protein deficiencies or higher protein requirements, such as young horses, rescue horses, or seniors, can benefit from alfalfa supplementation. For older horses with slower metabolic rates, alfalfa can be particularly helpful in meeting their nutritional needs.

In Conclusion

While alfalfa may have some limitations and not necessarily work as a replacement for grass, it can still be a valuable supplement for horses as it contains essential nutrients, like protein in particular. 

By learning about the role of alfalfa and understanding its benefits, horse owners can make informed decisions on incorporating alfalfa effectively into the diets of their equine companions.

Links and resources:

Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website 

Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally

Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.

Riva’s Remedies: Kidney Care 

Last week, I introduced the principles of homeopathy. This week, I explore a practical example of an effective, all-round homeopathic remedy.

Arnica is a well-known homeopathic remedy I advise every horse owner to keep on hand because it is versatile, and we can use it for horses, dogs, cats, and even humans.

Join me to learn why Arnica is an indispensable remedy for your horse.

Arnica is a Member of the Sunflower Family

Arnica is a plant belonging to the sunflower family. It is easy to recognize because it looks like a yellow daisy. Arnica is native to Europe, some parts of the northern United States, and Canada. It is known to be toxic if consumed in large quantities. 

Harnessing the Power of Arnica in Homeopathy

Arnica is a homeopathic remedy that stimulates the natural processes of the body. The philosophy behind homeopathy is the principle of like cures like. Creating a homeopathic remedy involves diluting a substance to a point where it can no longer cause harm, alleviating symptoms instead. Scientific studies support the efficacy of Arnica, making it a valuable tool for all horse owners everywhere.

Effects and Safe Usage

In its crude form, Arnica can be toxic- especially to the liver. That has led the FDA and Health Canada to classify it as a poisonous herb. Despite Arnica being used historically for bruises and contusions, regulations now caution against its unrestricted sale. However, in its homeopathic form, Arnica becomes a safe and versatile remedy, suitable for horses in many situations, including post-surgery recovery.

Symptom-Based Application

The key to effectively utilizing Arnica lies in understanding its symptom profile. Arnica is an ideal remedy for trauma, bruising, and inflammation. It has also proven beneficial in scenarios like post-surgery, concussions, and arthritis. Arnica can be used effectively for pregnant mares during labor to help reduce soreness and bruising of the uterus.

Practical Tips for Arnica Application

When administering Arnica, always consider factors like potency and application methods. You will often find Arnica in health food stores at 30C or 12C, which will work for some issues, but I prefer 200C for acute situations. While pellets are common, liquid forms can sometimes be a little easier to administer to horses. It is essential to avoid adding Arnica to food to make sure that its vibrational nature gets preserved. Lastly, you must always adhere to the principle of using Arnica until you see some improvement, and stop using it if you see no changes occur within a reasonable timeframe.

A Game-Changer for Unexpected Injuries or Trauma

Being proactive is the key to being a responsible horse owner, and having Arnica on hand can be a game-changer in those unexpected moments of injury or trauma. Horses have a knack for getting into predicaments at the most inconvenient times- over weekends, late at night, or during storms when access to healthcare is unavailable. With Arnica readily available, you empower yourself to take immediate action to provide comfort and support to your equine companions. 

Links and resources:

Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website 

Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally

Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.

Riva’s Remedies

We are diving into homeopathy for horses today.

I love and appreciate homeopathy, and I am studying to gain the necessary credentials to become a homeopath for humans. 

Homeopathy often gets misconstrued as synonymous with holistic or natural healing methods. But it is not. Homeopathy stands alone as a distinct type of medicine.

In today's episode, I explain the essence of homeopathy and explore its unique benefits for our equine companions.

An Introduction to Homeopathy for Horses

Homeopathy is not just another approach to healing. It is the second-largest system of medicine globally. Unfortunately, we are lagging in incorporating it into healthcare here in North America. Unlike other countries where homeopathy is widespread, many Americans remain unaware of its benefits- especially for horses. 

The Roots of Homeopathy

The roots of homeopathy trace back to the early 1800s, when Dr. Samuel Hahnemann explored the energetic aspects of various substances, ultimately leading to the development of the Law of Similars, a foundational philosophy of homeopathy.

Homeopathic Remedies and the Law of Similars 

Homeopathic remedies are derived from plants, animals, and minerals and operate on the principle of like cures like. Homeopathy matches the energetic profile of a substance to the symptoms of an individual, whether human or horse and stimulates a natural healing response. Controversies have arisen from skepticism about the effectiveness of highly diluted remedies. However, technological advancements like nanotechnology have shed light on the presence of particles beyond what could previously be detected conventionally.

Homeopathy is a Vibrational Medicine

Homeopathic remedies are diluted energetic forms that target specific symptoms, acting as an effective first aid option without any harmful side effects. Homeopathy aligns well with horses' natural chemistry and their sensitivity to energies. In contrast to allopathic medicine, homeopathic remedies work on a vibrational level as a gentle and holistic approach for horses.

The Benefits of Homeopathy for Horses

Homeopathy offers numerous benefits for horses, making it a safe, fast-acting, and environmentally friendly choice. With no harmful side effects, it is particularly advantageous for pregnant or lactating mares. Horses respond well to the vibrational nature of homeopathy, which offers relief from various conditions, including injuries, infections, and digestive issues.

Selecting Homeopathic Remedies

Choosing homeopathic remedies involves analyzing the symptoms and then selecting the appropriate ones. I like to have Arnica on hand for trauma, RhusToxicodendron for ligament strains, and Nux Vomica for digestive issues. Combination remedies, like Calm Aid or Trauma Drops, offer broader coverage for specific situations, and tissue aids target infections effectively.

Administering Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathic remedies are administered orally. They can either be dissolved under the tongue or diluted in water for horses to ensure a clean application. 

A Versatile Option Healing Horses

Homeopathy is a versatile option for horses because it focuses on their symptoms and contributes to their overall well-being. The safety, efficacy, and environmental friendliness of homeopathy make it a valuable addition to the toolkit of all horse owners. You can find single remedies in health food stores, and Riva’s Remedies provides combination remedies specifically designed for horses. 

Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions in further episodes on the best ways to support the health and vitality of our beloved equine companions.

Links and resources:

Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website 

Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally

Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.

Riva’s Remedies