Several horses are standing close together, engaging in social interaction, the image symbolizes natural keeping and well-being. It emphasizes the importance of home remedies for horses, which can be used as supportive care for mild issues such as early signs of colic or to promote general health.

Home Remedies for Horses: Natural Solutions for Health and Care

Health
Reading Time: 8 Minutes

From digestive troubles to skin issues and insect bites, natural remedies offer gentle, effective support for your horse’s health. Used alongside veterinary care, these home treatments and natural alternatives can ease common complaints and promote well-being. In this guide, you'll find practical solutions, clear instructions, and tips for safe use. Always tailored to your horse’s individual needs.

Table of Contents

What Are Home Remedies for Horses?

Home remedies—also known as natural treatments or herbal solutions—are time-tested, natural approaches used to support equine health in various situations. They complement veterinary medicine and offer a wide range of applications:

Areas of Application for Home Remedies in Equine Health

  • Digestive issues and gastrointestinal health: Relief for symptoms such as diarrhea, loose manure, bloating, gastric ulcers, or colic.
  • Respiratory conditions: Soothing remedies for coughs, mucus buildup, irritated larynx, or nasal congestion.
  • Skin and coat problems: Treatment of skin infections, eczema, summer eczema, dandruff, or seasonal coat changes.
  • Hooves and legs: Support for thrush, leg swelling, filled legs, or hoof abscesses.
  • Eyes and ears: Care for conjunctivitis or watery eyes.
  • Parasite defense: Protection against flies, harvest mites, black flies, or insect bites.
  • General health: Strengthening the immune system, support with detoxification, fever, or stress.

Important Notes

  • Individual tolerance: Not every natural remedy is suitable for every horse. For example, horses are highly sensitive to even small amounts of alcohol, so malt beer should be avoided.
  • Combination with medications: Some home remedies may interfere with the effect of medications. For instance, mucilaginous substances from marshmallow root can impair drug absorption.
  • Veterinary consultation: Always consult a veterinarian before using home remedies to avoid unwanted interactions or side effects.

Natural treatments can be a valuable addition to horse care—but should always be used thoughtfully and in consultation with professionals.

Home Remedies for Digestive Issues and Gut Health

Digestion plays a central role in equine health, as horses have a particularly sensitive digestive system that reacts quickly to stress, changes in diet, or other external influences. Common issues such as loose manure, diarrhea, or colic are not only unpleasant for the horse but can also have serious consequences. Fortunately, there are many gentle home remedies that can offer effective relief. In this section, you'll learn which remedies help with specific digestive problems, how they work, and how they should be dosed.

❗ Important Notices
✔ Veterinary consultation: For respiratory conditions, a veterinarian should always be consulted to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
✔ Individual tolerance: Not all horses respond the same way to certain home remedies. Observe your horse closely and discontinue use if any negative reactions occur.
✔ Dosage: The stated dosages are general guidelines. The exact amount should be individually adjusted and discussed with a professional.
✔ Product quality: Only use high-quality products suitable for horses to avoid unwanted side effects.
The use of these home remedies should always be discussed with a veterinarian to ensure your horse’s health and well-being.
Remedy Used for Dosage / Feeding Recommendation Notes
Aloe vera juice Gastric ulcers, stomach issues 50–100 ml daily, mix into feed Soothes the stomach lining; consult a vet before use.
Linseed mucilage Gastric ulcers, stomach issues, intestinal protection, diarrhea, watery feces Pour hot water over 50–100 g of linseed, let it swell, cool down, then mix into feed Forms a protective mucous layer; unsoaked linseed can be toxic.
Chamomile tea Gastric ulcers, stomach issues, intestinal protection, diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain Add 1–2 cups of cooled tea to drinking water or feed Anti-inflammatory and calming; do not overdose.
Licorice root Gastric ulcers Prepare 5–10 g of dried root as tea, let cool, then add to feed Promotes mucus production; do not use longer than 4–6 weeks without veterinary advice.
Marshmallow root Gastric ulcers Prepare 10–20 g of dried root as tea, let cool, then add to feed Mucilage may interfere with medication absorption; do not administer at the same time.
Mash Stomach problems, digestive disorders, diarrhea, constipation Cook mash from oats, wheat bran, and linseed; serve lukewarm Supports digestion and calms the stomach; do not feed too frequently to avoid nutrient imbalance.
Psyllium husks Intestinal cleansing, diarrhea, watery feces, constipation 10–20 g daily, soak in water before feeding Binds sand and regulates bowel activity; ensure sufficient water intake.
Apple cider vinegar Watery feces Mix 50 ml daily into drinking water Supports gut flora; avoid use in sensitive stomachs or with acidosis.
Carrot mash Watery feces, diarrhea Boil 1–2 carrots per meal, puree, and mix with water Pectins protect the intestinal lining and bind toxins; carrots must be cooked.
Healing clay Watery feces, diarrhea Mix 20 g daily into moist feed Binds excess fluids and toxins in the gut; ensure quality and purity.

Home Remedies for Respiratory Conditions and Mucus Relief in Horses

Respiratory illnesses are among the most common health challenges in horses. Symptoms like dry cough, mucus buildup, an irritated larynx, nasal discharge, and a runny nose can significantly affect a horse’s well-being and performance. In addition to veterinary treatments, certain natural remedies can provide valuable support by easing the airways and promoting the healing process.

This section introduces a variety of home treatments that can be used to address specific respiratory symptoms in horsesexplaining, how they work and how they should be applied.

❗ Important Notices
✔ Veterinary consultation: For respiratory conditions, a veterinarian should always be consulted to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
✔ Individual tolerance: Not all horses respond the same way to certain home remedies. Observe your horse closely and discontinue use if adverse reactions occur.
✔ Dosage: The specified dosages are general guidelines. The exact amount should be individually adjusted and discussed with a professional.
✔ Product quality: Only use high-quality products suitable for horses to avoid unwanted side effects.
The use of these home remedies should always be discussed with a veterinarian to ensure your horse’s health and well-being.
Remedy Used for Dosage / Feeding Recommendation Notes
Eucalyptus oil Mucus release, respiratory support Let a few drops evaporate in hot water Do not apply directly to mucous membranes; may irritate sensitive horses
Thyme tea Cough, mucus release Add 1–2 cups of cooled tea to the feed Expectorant and anti-inflammatory
Chamomile (inhalation) Irritated larynx, nasal discharge, cold symptoms Add a handful of chamomile to hot water for inhalation Soothing and anti-inflammatory
Sage Cough, irritated larynx Give 1–2 cups of tea via feed or drinking water Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
Honey Irritated throat, cough Mix 1–2 tablespoons daily into the feed Soothes the throat, has antimicrobial effects
Iceland moss Dry cough, mucus release Prepare 10–20 g as tea and add to feed Protects the mucous membranes
Black cumin oil General respiratory diseases Mix 10–20 ml daily into the feed Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting
Linseed (cooked) Cough, irritated larynx, mucus release Soak 50 g in hot water and add to feed Soothing for the airways
Garlic Cold symptoms, general respiratory issues Mix 10–20 g daily into the feed Antibacterial; dose with care
Peppermint (inhalation) Cold symptoms, nasal discharge Use handfuls of peppermint in hot water to create steam Refreshing, supports mucus release

Home Remedies for Skin and Coat Problems in Horses

Your horse’s skin and coat are not only reflections of its overall health but are also prone to a variety of issues. From skin infections like mud fever or fungal conditions to irritations caused by mites and lice, and even chronic ailments such as sweet itch or hives—skin and coat problems can greatly affect your horse’s daily life.

Even during seasonal coat changes or when aiming for a shiny mane and healthy coat, you can rely on time-tested natural remedies.

In this section, you’ll learn which home treatments are effective against specific conditions like mud fever, mites, itching, scratches, fungal infections, or dandruff. You’ll also get tips on how to support your horse’s coat transition and promote a healthy, glossy coat and mane using simple, natural methods. Whether you're dealing with acute issues like a rubbing tail or looking for long-term care solutions—you’ll find practical natural care options for the most common skin and coat issues in horses.

Important Notes

  • Individual tolerance: Not every natural remedy is suitable for every horse. For instance, horses are highly sensitive to even tiny amounts of alcohol, so malt beer should be avoided.
  • Interaction with medications: Some home remedies can interfere with the efficacy of medications. For example, mucilaginous substances from marshmallow root may reduce the absorption of certain drugs.
  • Veterinary consultation: Always consult a veterinarian before using natural treatments to avoid unwanted interactions or side effects.

Natural remedies can be a valuable addition to your horse care routine—but they should always be used thoughtfully and in coordination with veterinary professionals.

Skin Infections and Irritations

In this section, you’ll discover which home remedies are effective for specific issues such as mud fever, mites, itching, scratches, fungal skin infections, or dandruff.

Remedy Skin condition Application Notes
Zinc ointment Scratches (mud fever) Apply a thin layer to the affected area Protects the skin and promotes healing
Coconut oil Sweet itch Apply externally to the affected areas Nourishes the skin and relieves itching
Apple cider vinegar Skin fungus Dilute 1:1 with water and apply to affected areas Has antifungal properties
Chamomile tea Itching Apply cooled tea to affected areas Soothing and anti-inflammatory effect
Tea tree oil Dandruff Apply diluted with a carrier oil Antiseptic; use only diluted
Aloe vera gel Tail rubbing Apply directly to the irritated areas Cools and supports healing
Healing clay Grease heel Apply as a paste and allow to dry Anti-inflammatory and promotes healing

Coat Care and Seasonal Shedding

Proper care of your horse’s coat and mane is essential for its health and overall well-being. A shiny coat and strong mane are not only visually appealing—they also reflect a balanced diet and effective grooming practices.

Below, you’ll find proven natural remedies and helpful tips to support your horse during the shedding season and promote a healthy, vibrant coat and mane.

Remedy Application Effect Notes
Linseed Mix 50–100 g daily into feed Rich in omega-3 fatty acids; supports skin and coat health Soak linseed before feeding
Brewer's yeast Mix 20–30 g daily into feed Contains B vitamins and biotin; supports shiny coat and hoof quality Use high-quality yeast without additives
Black cumin oil Give 1–2 tablespoons daily in feed Boosts the immune system and may relieve skin problems Introduce gradually to accustom the horse to the taste
Apple cider vinegar Mix 50 ml daily into drinking water or feed Stimulates metabolism and can enhance coat shine Do not use in horses with sensitive stomachs
Herbal mixes (e.g. nettle, milk thistle) Add dried herbs to feed Detoxifying and metabolism-supporting; helps with coat change Dose in consultation with a veterinarian
Coconut oil Apply externally to mane and tail Conditions the hair and makes combing easier Use sparingly to avoid greasiness
Homemade mane spray (e.g. water and baby oil) Spray onto mane and tail Detangles and adds shine Shake well before use

Home Remedies for Hoof Problems

Healthy hooves are essential for a horse’s mobility and overall quality of life. Conditions such as thrush, hoof abscesses, or lameness can be not only painful but also have lasting consequences if not treated promptly.

In addition to veterinary care, proven natural remedies can offer gentle and supportive relief. The following overview explains which home treatments are effective for common hoof problems, how to apply them, and what effects they have.

Remedy Application Effect Notes
Linseed Mix 50–100 g daily into feed Rich in omega-3 fatty acids; supports skin and coat health Soak linseed before feeding
Brewer's yeast Mix 20–30 g daily into feed Contains B vitamins and biotin; supports shiny coat and hoof quality Use high-quality yeast without additives
Black cumin oil Give 1–2 tablespoons daily in feed Boosts the immune system and may relieve skin problems Introduce gradually to accustom the horse to the taste
Apple cider vinegar Mix 50 ml daily into drinking water or feed Stimulates metabolism and can enhance coat shine Do not use in horses with sensitive stomachs
Herbal mixes (e.g. nettle, milk thistle) Add dried herbs to feed Detoxifying and metabolism-supporting; helps with coat change Dose in consultation with a veterinarian
Coconut oil Apply externally to mane and tail Conditions the hair and makes combing easier Use sparingly to avoid greasiness
Homemade mane spray (e.g. water and baby oil) Spray onto mane and tail Detangles and adds shine Shake well before use

Home Remedies for Injuries

Injuries are among the most common health issues in horses, ranging from minor scrapes to more serious wounds. Quick and careful first aid is crucial to prevent infections and support the healing process.

Alongside veterinary care, certain natural remedies can help ease discomfort and promote recovery. In the following overview, you’ll learn which time-tested home treatments can be used for typical equine injuries, how they work, and how to apply them correctly.

Remedy Issue Application Explanation
Exercise Swollen legs Regular light movement such as hand-walking Stimulates circulation and lymphatic flow, helping to reduce swelling.
Compresses with calendula tea Cellulitis (Phlegmon) Pour 200 g of calendula blossoms into 10 liters of boiling water, let steep until cooled to about 30°C. Soak a bandage in the tea and wrap the affected leg. Calendula has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and supports tissue healing.
Chamomile tea Mastitis Pour hot water over chamomile flowers, allow to cool, then gently wash the udder with the tea. Chamomile has calming and anti-inflammatory effects and may help alleviate udder inflammation.
Notice: These home remedies can provide support but do not replace consultation with a veterinarian. In case of acute or severe symptoms, always seek professional veterinary assistance.

Home Remedies for Parasite Defense in Horses

Parasites such as flies, harvest mites, deer flies, and black flies can significantly affect a horse’s well-being. Especially during the warmer months, these tiny pests become a nuisance, causing not only itching but also skin irritations and infections. While many commercial products contain harsh chemicals, natural alternatives offer a gentle, eco-friendly way to protect your horse.

Which home remedies can help repel flies and other parasites? How are they used, and how do they work? Whether it’s homemade fly spray, coconut oil for lice, or tea tree oil for black flies—you’ll find practical tips here to help relieve your horse naturally.

Homemade Fly Spray

Flies and other insects can be especially bothersome for horses during warm weather. A homemade fly spray made from natural ingredients is a skin-friendly and environmentally conscious alternative to commercial products.

Recipe for Homemade Fly Spray

Ingredients:

  • 400 ml strong black or green tea
  • 50 ml apple cider vinegar
  • 50 ml household vinegar
  • Several garlic cloves
  • A few dried cloves
  • A dash of olive oil
  • One spray bottle

Preparation:

  1. Brew the tea: Prepare 400 ml of strong black or green tea and let it cool completely.
  2. Add the vinegar: Mix 50 ml each of apple cider and household vinegar into the cooled tea.
  3. Add garlic and cloves: Crush several garlic cloves and add them along with a few dried cloves.
  4. Add olive oil: A dash of olive oil helps care for the skin and improves the spray’s adherence.
  5. Mix and bottle: Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and shake well before each use.

Application:

  • Spray generously onto your horse’s coat before riding or turnout.
  • Avoid sensitive areas like the eyes and nostrils.
  • Reapply as needed, especially after heavy sweating or rain.

How it works:

  • Black/green tea: Helps reduce the horse’s natural scent, which attracts flies.
  • Apple cider and household vinegar: Have a natural repellent effect.
  • Garlic: Its sulfur compounds mask the horse’s scent and deter flies.
  • Dried cloves: Their strong aroma enhances the repellent effect.
  • Olive oil: Nourishes the skin and improves spray adherence.

Notes:

  • Test the spray on a small skin area first to check for any allergic reactions.
  • Store in a cool, dark place and use within a few weeks.
  • For heavy infestations, consider combining the spray with fly sheets or masks.

With this DIY fly spray, you can protect your horse from pesky insects in a natural and skin-friendly way.

Natural Remedies for Harvest Mites in Horses

Harvest mites—especially the larvae of the autumn mite (Neotrombicula autumnalis)—can cause severe itching, skin irritation, and discomfort in horses. These parasites are most active in late summer and fall, particularly on pastures with heavy infestations.

In addition to veterinary treatment, there are several natural alternatives that can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the mite burden.

Which home treatments are effective against harvest mites, and how should they be applied? Discover practical natural solutions ranging from vinegar-water mixtures to coconut oil and black cumin oil.

Remedy Application Mode of Action
Vinegar-water mixture Mix apple cider vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio. Carefully wash the affected skin areas or apply with a soft cloth. Alters the skin’s pH level, making it less attractive to harvest mites. Has mild disinfecting properties.
Natural soap (curd soap) Make a mild soap solution and cleanse the affected areas. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Removes dirt and dead skin cells that attract mites and soothes irritated skin.
Coconut oil Apply organic, cold-pressed coconut oil to affected skin and massage in gently. Use daily. Contains lauric acid, which repels harvest mites. Nourishes the skin and relieves itching.
Black cumin oil Carefully apply black cumin oil to affected skin areas. Use regularly over 2–3 weeks. Soothes skin thanks to anti-inflammatory properties and relieves itching.
Hygiene measures Keep stable and pasture clean. Change bedding regularly and thoroughly clean grooming tools and blankets. Reduces mite infestation and supports the effectiveness of the remedies.

Natural Remedies for Biting Midges, Deer Flies, and Insect Bites in Horses

During warmer months, horses are often plagued by biting midges, deer flies, and other stinging pests. These insects can cause discomfort, skin irritations, and even allergic reactions. Fortunately, several natural remedies can provide first aid by repelling insects and soothing insect bites.

Home Treatments for Biting Midges

Coconut oil

  • Application: Apply organic, cold-pressed coconut oil to vulnerable skin areas.
  • How it works: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which forms a protective barrier that repels biting midges and nourishes the skin.

Essential oils

  • Application: Mix essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil with water and spray onto the coat.
  • How it works: The intense scents act as a repellent and help prevent bites.

Natural Alternatives for Deer Flies

Tea tree oil

  • Application: Dab a few drops of tea tree oil onto affected areas to deter flies.
  • How it works: Tea tree oil has a repelling effect on deer flies. Always test skin tolerance beforehand, as it may cause irritation in some horses.

Natural wash solutions

  • Application: Clean the affected areas with a solution containing 4% pyrethrum extract.
  • How it works: Pyrethrum acts as a natural insecticide and helps control deer flies effectively.

Natural Solutions for Insect Bites

Onion

  • Application: Place a fresh onion slice directly onto the bite.
  • How it works: Onion has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that reduce swelling and itching.

Aloe vera

  • Application: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected area.
  • How it works: Aloe vera cools the skin, relieves itching, and promotes healing.

Cold compresses

  • Application: Use cold compresses to soothe irritated or swollen skin.
  • How it works: Cooling calms the skin and may reduce allergic reactions.

Practical Tips for Using Natural Remedies

Natural home remedies are a gentle and often effective way to support your horse with issues like digestive problems, insect bites, or skin irritations. To maximize their effectiveness, consider the following tips:

1. Test for Tolerance

Always test each remedy on a small skin area before full application—especially with essential oils or vinegar mixtures.

2. Correct Dosage

Use natural alternatives in the right concentration:

  • Vinegar-water mixtures: dilute 1:1
  • Essential oils: just a few drops mixed with water or carrier oils

3. Apply Regularly

Most home treatments require consistent use:

  • Coconut oil for midges: apply daily
  • Aloe vera for itching: apply multiple times a day

4. Keep Stable and Equipment Clean

Clean surroundings enhance the effect of natural remedies:

  • Regularly clean bedding, feed buckets, grooming tools, and blankets

5. Combine with Physical Protection

Boost effectiveness by using fly sheets, masks, or avoiding heavily infested pastures.

6. Choose the Right Remedy

Match the remedy to the issue:

  • Vinegar solution for harvest mites
  • Aloe vera for insect bites
  • Natural soap for skin infections

7. Be Patient

Some horses react sensitively to new treatments, especially sprays. Introduce slowly and gently.

8. Proper Storage

Store homemade remedies like fly sprays or vinegar mixtures in a cool, dark place and use within a few weeks.

9. Consult Your Vet

Home remedies can support veterinary care but not replace it. For severe issues such as:

  • Colic
  • Major skin infections
  • Swelling or lameness
    always seek professional help immediately.

10. Be Environmentally Responsible

Use natural ingredients that are safe for your horse and the environment. Avoid chemical additives whenever possible.

Home Remedies for Horses – A Summary

Natural remedies are a valuable, gentle addition to equine health care. They can be effective for various issues—from digestive troubles and skin problems to respiratory conditions and parasite control.

Used correctly and with attention to your horse’s individual tolerance, many conditions can be eased naturally. Always support their effectiveness with regular use, clean surroundings, and expert guidance.

From coconut oil for midges, to vinegar solutions for mites, to aloe vera for skin care—these natural alternatives help your horse in a safe, eco-conscious way.

💡 Don’t forget:
Home remedies can be effective, but they do not replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. Use them wisely, in consultation with professionals, to sustainably support your horse’s health and well-being.

Home Remedies for Horses - Most Frequently Asked Questions

What helps against biting midges in horses?

Natural oils like coconut oil or tea tree oil can be applied to vulnerable areas of the horse’s skin to deter biting midges. Essential oils such as lavender or eucalyptus can also be used in diluted form as a spray. Always test for skin tolerance beforehand on a small area.

How can I treat lice in horses with home remedies?

Regular grooming with natural alternatives such as diatomaceous earth or neem oil can help combat lice. Diatomaceous earth can be gently worked into the coat, while neem oil should be applied as a diluted solution. Thorough cleaning of the stable environment is equally important.

What helps treat mud fever in horses using natural remedies?

Traditional home treatments like iodine soap for cleansing or tea tree oil as a topical application may provide relief. Poultices with sauerkraut or lightly dusting with baby powder are also common remedies. It's essential to keep the skin dry and check for skin tolerance.

What kind of linseed helps with watery manure in horses?

Linseed contains mucilaginous substances that coat the stomach and intestinal lining while binding excess water in the gut—making it useful for managing loose manure. To activate its effect, linseed should always be soaked or boiled before feeding.

What helps with coughing in horses using natural solutions?

Inhalations with chamomile or thyme can help soothe the airways. Feeding black cumin oil or a small amount of honey may also have a calming effect. A dust-free environment is additionally beneficial.

What are natural remedies good for in horses?

Natural treatments can support a wide range of issues, from skin and digestive problems to respiratory ailments. They act as complementary aids to veterinary care and can improve your horse’s overall well-being.

What helps relieve itching in horses using home remedies?

Applying aloe vera gel or calendula ointment may soothe itchy skin. Washing with diluted apple cider vinegar or cooled black tea can also reduce itching. Identifying the underlying cause is key to effective treatment.

Always consider your horse’s individual tolerance when using natural remedies and consult a veterinarian in case of uncertainty or persistent symptoms.

Author
Nele SchimmelpfennigDISCOVER CMH.TV

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Colic
Horse health
Gastric Ulceration