Aloe vera is a plant that offers many health benefits for your horse. If you’ve been seeking a natural means of curing a particular condition, or simply wish to improve your horse’s health and prevent disease overall, you’ll discover all of aloe vera’s advantages below.

Ancient Medicine for Modern Applications

Alexander the Great is said to have used the juice from the aloe vera plant to heal war wounds. Aloe vera juice was also considered to be a powerful elixir by the ancient Japanese and Chinese, and aloe vera gel was used topically by the Egyptians.

Today, we understand far more about why aloe vera is so powerful. Not only does its glycoproteins control inflammation, but aloe vera speeds the regrowth of new and healthy tissue thanks to its polysaccharides. Finally, it also contains something called glucomannan, which stimulates the building of new tissue and collagen.

How Can Aloe Vera Benefit Your Horse?

Aloe vera’s many beneficial characteristics make it an ideal equine supplement.

Reduces Inflammation

As stated above, aloe vera contains glycoproteins, which help to reduce inflammation both in the digestive tract and system-wide. Reduction and elimination of overall inflammation can prevent many inflammation-related diseases from developing, including hindgut acidosis and laminitis.

Protects the GI Tract for Help with Ulcers

Some horses are vulnerable to gastric ulcers. In these individuals, the mucosal layer of the intestinal tract is sensitive and, therefore, must be protected. Aloe vera provides that protection, both by reducing inflammation and creating a barrier between intestinal tissue and stomach acid.

Balances Gut Bacteria Populations, Boosts Immune System

Stress can negatively affect the populations of beneficial gut bacteria that live in the digestive system of horses. Stress can be related to environmental changes like traveling and competition, and it can also be caused by medication like dewormers and antibiotics, which deplete beneficial bacteria populations.

This can lead to the development of colic. Aloe vera lowers the pH of gastric acid, helping your horse maintain a healthy population of beneficial gut bacteria, ultimately restoring the strength of the immune system.

Improves Digestion and Bowel Health

When the gut contains balanced populations of bacteria and the intestinal lining is soothed and protected, a horse will experience better digestion. As well, a stronger intestinal lining will mean better uptake of nutrients for overall health. The large amounts of fiber in aloe vera absorb bowel toxins and speed the transit time of waste through the bowels.

Full of Antioxidants and Nutrients

The vitamins E, C, and A found in aloe vera all act as antioxidants, which fight and reverse cell damage. As well, aloe vera contains nutrients and minerals, including:

• Vitamin B12
• Folic acid
• Copper
• Manganese
• Zinc
• Potassium
• Selenium

Now that you know all the benefits of aloe vera powder, you may be wondering about dosages.

Always Consult Your Vet

Aloe vera powder can be added directly to feed. It can also be mixed with water and administered orally, but always speak with your vet before beginning supplementation of any kind, including with aloe vera juice or powder to rule out any underlying conditions that may be present prior to giving aloe vera to your horse.

100% Natural Products for Equine Health

Aloe vera is a wonderful healer and soother. Equi-Herbs sources only the best natural ingredients for its aloe vera and other natural equine supplements because we’re horse owners ourselves. Visit us online to learn more about our top-quality products.