ETHNOVETERINARY HERBAL MEDICINE

FOR PET AND COMPANION ANIMALS

Dr. A. Elamaran M.V. Sc.,
Assistant professor
Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology
Orathanadu, Thanjavur – 614 625

Ethnoveterinary Herbal medicine / Herbal treatment for pet and companion animals?
Is it just some kind of "new age" stuff?

Humans have been using healing herbs for as long as there have been humans and
herbs to heal them. Many of those same natural remedies may be effective in treating your
dog for a variety of ailments, if used in the right ways. In fact, animal experts have long
observed that sick animals in the wild will actually seek out herbs to help them deal with
injuries or illness, so advocates of herbal medicine for pets say they’re simply providing the
animals with purer and more powerful versions of what they’d find in the wild all by
themselves.

Impact of Ethnoveterinary Herbal medicine in pet and companion animals is not the
quantity as registered in large animal practice and it is still in early-stage, has to go long way
in terms of validation, evaluation and making recipe. Hence, this chapter throws the light on
the source, opportunities and extend of knowledge on medicinal herbs in pet and companion
animal practice.

Important Medicinal Herbs

Aloe Vera
This spiky leafed herb is pretty amazing. It's medicinal value has been appreciated
since ancient times, helping to heal wounds and even stomach ulcers in people, amongst other
things.You'll be glad to know it's also good for your dog if applied topically. Aloe Vera gel
can be applied topically to help treat minor burns, scrapes, and skin irritations due to its
cooling and anitbacterial properites. But pet parents are warned—dogs should not eat or lick
Aloe Vera or the leaves of Aloe Vera plants, as it can cause gastrointestinal problems and
toxicity if ingested in large amounts. If applying the gel topically, make sure your dog does
not lick the area.

Calendula Flowers
 The bright and sunny flowers of this easy-growing herb may be used to treat cuts,
scrapes and wounds, both on you and your dog. While it has many different applications
(including anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and the cooking pot), it’s mostly used to heal
wounds.

The flower petals, meanwhile, can be applied directly as a wound dressing, or made
into a tea to be used as an antiseptic wash. The antiseptic quality of the herb helps prevent
bacterial growth, which is good news for your dog and bad news for the bacteria.

Ginger
Not only is the root of the ginger herb delicious, but it’s been highly prized for
centuries as a medicinal herb. It can be made into a tea or tincture, and is excellent at settling
a doggy's upset tummy.

Goldenseal
Sadly, goldenseal has nothing to do with gold, seals, or even a magical seal made out
of gold (that would just be silly). This herb is a powerful antibiotic that prevents the bacteria
from latching onto the cell walls. It can be used as a tincture, tea, or wash for dogs with eye
infections or weepy eyes. It’s also useful in treating stomach and bowel ailments.

Milk Thistle (Silimum marinum)

Milk thistle protects the liver against damage and also improves liver function. In fact,
it’s an important extract to use if your dog has been on any medicine that may affect the liver.

Valerian, Chamomile and California poppy

This trio of herbs can be used to treat a hyper dog. They are natural relaxants for dogs,
and also have added health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure, asthma, and even
working against pesky parasites. Tinctures, teas, and extracts all work well, although with
Valerian, only a few drops are needed.

Herbal Canine Antibiotics

In recent veterinary practice, synthetic canine antibiotics are one group of drugs that
are being overly prescribed by vets. They are being used for even the slightest infections, and
sometimes, ridiculously, for viral infections as well. As a result, a lot of bacteria are now
resistant to the conventional antibiotics; and many dogs are suffering from the side effects of
the long-term drug use.

While conventional canine antibiotics are necessary for infections that have already
set in or are progressing rapidly, herbal antibiotics are good to use in the beginning phases of
an infection. There are actually a variety of herbs that have strong anti-bacterial properties
(either inhibiting bacterial growth or killing the bacteria) and can be used to treat illnesses
caused by bad bacteria.

Here are some common herbs that can be used as herbal antibiotics for dogs and cats.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis - தளகக சசமநத): Calendula has been found to

have anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties. Topically, it is very effective
in disinfecting and healing wounds. It acts as a general tonic and stimulates the liver
and immune system stimulant when taken internally as a tea or tincture.

 Yarrow (Achillea millefolium - அச்சசில்லசியய): Yarrow has anti-bacterial, anti-

inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Used externally, it is a good healer of wounds

of all sorts. It stops bleeding and infections. Taken internally, it supports the liver,
soothes upset stomachs, and helps poor digestion. It is widely used to treat fevers,
colds, and flu-like symptoms.

 Turmeric (Curcuma longa – மஞசள ): This potent herb is anti-bacterial, anti-

inflammatory and a powerful antioxidant. Topically, you can use it (mixed with
manuka honey - another natural antibiotic) to stop skin infections. Taken internally, it
stimulates the liver and is good for GI problems such as irritable bowel syndrome.
Suggested Herbal remedies

S. No Herb name Important Medicinal use

1 Emblica officinalis (Amla) Antistress

2 Citrus limon (Lemon) Antistress

3 Piper betle (Betel leaves) Anthelmintic
Acorus calamus (vasambu) External parasiticide, and
Disinfectant
4 Medicago sativa (Alfalfa) Antiarthritic

5 Phyllanthus amarus (Keelanelli) Liver stimulant and

hepatoprotective
6 Allium cepa (Onion) Growth promoter

7 Piper nigrum (Pepper) Respiratory distress

8 Ocimum sanctum (Tulasi) Respiratory Problems

& growth promotor

9 Andrographis paniculata (Nilavembu) Round worm infestation

Azadirachta indica (Neem) Immuno stimulant,

10
antthelmintic and as
ectoparaciticide
Growth Promoter, Respiratory
11 Curcuma longa (Turmeric)
diseases
12 In limited dose, it can act as
Allium sativum (Garlic)
natural antibiotic and antiviral
13 Aloe vera Minor wound and topical burns
for topical use
14 Camellia sinensis Used to prepare green tea, act
as potent antioxidant
15 Juglans nigra (Black walnut) Natural dewormer and
antifungal

Appropriate Dosages for pet animals

There are no precise doses for dogs (and cats). Many holistic vets suggest starting out
slowly, giving the remedy with low doses at first to avoid rejection and the possibility of
stomach upset. Then, after a month or so, when the dog adjusts to her herbal intake, you can
taper off or add on, depending on her reaction. Also, when giving herbs (and other
supplements for that matter) to our dogs, it is advisable to give them in a manner that the
dog's body is allowed a "break" from the herbs.

For example, if you are giving herbs to your dog as a health tonic, use a schedule
of five days on and two days off (i.e. give the herbs to the dog for five days and stop giving
for 2 days). Do this for 4 weeks, and then have a one-week break.

If, on the other hand, you are giving herbs to your dog to treat a chronic health
problem (e.g. arthritis), you don't need to have a full week off after 4 weeks' administration of
the herbs. Instead, you can substitute different products during that period. Many herbs (and
supplements as well) have the same or similar properties and functions, and by switching
from one to another, you can continue to treat the health problem but at the same time you are
not overexposing your dog to a particular herb or supplement.

Precautions When Using Herbs on Dogs

 Herbs usually act much more slowly than Western medicines so do not expect any
"quick-fix" from herbal treatments. In general, it takes at least 60 to 90 days after the
beginning of herbal treatments to see any significant improvement in a pet's health
conditions.

 While herbs are, in many ways, better and more gentle to our pets than conventional
medicines, it is not advisable to use herbs in the place of vet consultation, particularly
in the event of a serious or life-threatening condition. In general, herbs are best used to
support and improve the general physical wellbeing of our pets. Also, herbs are best
used for treating chronic diseases and are not the preferred means of treatment in
emergency situations.

 It is important that we obtain the best quality herbs from reputable and trustworthy
suppliers.

Potentially Unsafe Herbs for Pets

Some people mistakenly believe that because herbs are "natural", as such they are
"safe". The bad news is, that is not true. Like any other therapeutical substances, certain herbs
can cause side effects. Others can even be toxic or even lethal to some animals when used
inappropriately.

Sometimes an herb can cause side effects by itself; other times the use of an herb
might interfere with the actions of a conventional drug or increase the chance of side effects
when used in conjunction with certain drugs.

However, having said that, herbs are generally less likely to cause the type of nasty
side effects caused by conventional medications. The bottom line is, when you are unsure
whether a certain herb is safe for your pet, consult a holistic vet first - especially if your pet is
on conventional medications, or is already weakened by certain ailment(s).

The following unsafe herbs are potentially dangerous for use in animals and care
should be exercised when using them:

Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)

While this herb (and its essential oil) is an effective insecticide, it is toxic to dogs and
cats at high doses. In particular, it should NEVER be used in pets with existing kidney
disease. The essential oil of pennyroyal is extremely concentrated and, to be on the safe side,
should not be used on dogs and cats, especially if they are pregnant.

Tea Tree oil (from Melaleuca alternifolia)

Undiluted tea tree essential oil is VERY toxic to cats and small dogs. (In fact, cats are
extremely sensitive to essential oils and it is better not to use essential oils on cats.)

For bigger dogs, use tea tree oil with care. Always dilute the essential oil (0.5-1%) in a carrier
oil (e.g. olive or almond oil). Test a small patch of skin prior to use as some pets may be
sensitive to the oil.

White Willow Bark

 White willow bark contains salicylates (same as in aspirin) which may be toxic to
cats. Also, do not give this herb to your dog if he is taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs).

Ephedra spp.,

This Chinese herb is most commonly prescribed for pets with asthma or respiratory
problems. However, it can cause heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) and high blood
pressure in animals, and some reports also state that it may cause idiosyncratic reactions in

Garlic

Garlic in large amounts can cause Heinz body anemia in dogs and cats. It is not
advisable therefore to use garlic in pets with anemia. However, if fed in small amount, garlic
is good for many uses, including the treatment of parasites such as fleas and worms,
microbial infections, and in the treatment of cancer. One clove of garlic per 10 pounds of
body weight for dogs (and 1/2 clove per cat) can usually be fed safely each day.

References

1. J.A. Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Comprehensive Reference
to the Best Herbs for Healing (Rodale Books, 2000).

2. C. Schwartz, Four Paws Five Directions: A Guide to Chinese Medicine for Cats and
Dogs (Celestial Arts Publishing, 1996).

3. Natural Health for Dogs and Cats by Dr. Richard Pitcairn

4. The Complete Herbal Handbook for the Dog and Cat by Juliette de Bairacli Levy

5. Veterinary for Herbal Medicine by Susan Wynn, DVM