I talk a lot about how mushrooms are helpful for dogs with various health challenges. Another natural and holistic tool I am a huge fan of when supporting dogs with their health is herbs.
Currently I’m studying to become both a human and canine herbalist, and excited to be bringing this modality into my practice because I believe herbs are incredibly useful, and underappreciated when it comes to helping our dogs’ bodies get back into balance.
Plants and animals have developed complex relationships over millions of years of evolution, creating synergies that enhance the health and vitality of both groups. As humans we have enjoyed the same relationship with plants, but with the modernization and fast pace of society today, we’ve lost touch with nature and the ability to tune into the fantastic, natural ability we have to heal ourselves.
As a holistic practitioner, I want to change that and using herbs is one of the most effective ways to tune into our own bodies, as well as those of our dog.
A canine herbalist is a specialist who uses plant-based remedies to support and improve the health of dogs. This practice combines traditional herbal knowledge with modern understanding of canine physiology to provide natural, holistic care for dogs.
Canine herbalists often create custom herbal blends tailored to individual dogs, considering factors such as age, breed, existing health conditions, and lifestyle.
Canine herbalists typically create custom formulations that may combine multiple herbs for synergistic effects. These can be administered in various forms:
Below are some examples of how nature can help with some specific examples of herbs and their usage:
🌱 Whereas conventional drugs are synthesized in laboratories, natural herbs/plants are derived directly from nature with ingredients that are gentler on the body, with few harmful side effects.
🌱 Some natural remedies may be better suited for long-term, preventative care.
🌱 The complex nature of herbs can address multiple health concerns simultaneously supporting overall health, versus conventional drugs which uses single, isolated compounds for just one specific issue.
🌱 Natural remedies are many times cheaper and easier to come by (and often no prescription needed!)
🌱 Plant medicine’s focus is preventative and to support general health and well being while conventional medicine looks at body parts in isolation and applies the “band-aid effect” of only treating symptoms, not the underlying cause.
It’s crucial to note that the use of herbs and plants should be tailored to each dog’s specific needs and health conditions. Dosage is critical, as what’s safe for humans may not be appropriate for dogs. Some herbs can interact with medications or may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions.
When using herbal remedies, it’s important to start with small doses and monitor the dog’s response. Quality and sourcing of herbs are also crucial to ensure safety and efficacy. This is why working with a skilled herbalist is important.
If you’d like to learn more about how herbs can help your dog, message me at sunny@nachoaveragedoghealthcoach.com, I’d love to hear from you!
Disclaimer:
While herbal remedies have shown to be beneficial, they should be used under professional guidance. Canine herbalists work in conjunction with veterinarians to ensure safe and effective treatment plans. This collaborative approach can provide dogs with a well-rounded, integrative health care strategy that combines the best of both conventional and natural medicine.
Disclaimer: medical information or statements made on this site are not intended for use in or as a substitute for the diagnosis or treatment of any health or physical condition or as a substitute for a veterinarian-client relationship which has been established by an in-person evaluation of a patient. This information and advice published or made available through this website is not intended to replace the services of a veterinarian, nor does it constitute a veterinarian-client relationship. Each individual’s treatment and/or results may vary based upon the circumstances, the patients’ specific situation, as well as the health care provider’s medical judgment and only after further discussion of the patient’s specific situation, goals, risks, and benefits and other relevant medical discussions. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
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