A Guide to Unlocking the Amazing Benefits of Rosemary for Horses

Horse owners are always on the lookout for ways to improve their animals' health and well-being, and feeding herbs like rosemary is one approach that has gained popularity in recent years. 

Rosemary has been used medicinally and as a culinary herb for centuries. It’s now commonly used in horse diets to provide numerous health benefits, such as vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory properties. Rosemary can also act as a natural insect repellent. However, with so many potential risks and unknowns, it's important to approach new foods with caution, especially when it comes to horses, which have unique digestive systems and nutritional needs.

This article will cover the health benefits of rosemary for horses, the different forms of rosemary available, as well as how to incorporate it into their diet, potential risks, and considerations when feeding it to horses. Ultimately, it is important to understand the benefits and potential risks of feeding rosemary to horses to ensure the safety and health of these animals.

Can Horses Eat Rosemary?

Yes, horses can eat rosemary in moderation. Rosemary is not toxic to horses and can be a beneficial part of their diet. It is high in essential vitamins and minerals, and aid digestion in horses. However, it is important to feed rosemary to horses as a treat and not as a regular part of their diet. 

Rosemary

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is closely related to other culinary herbs like thyme, basil, and oregano.

Rosemary has a distinctive aroma and flavour, with a woody, pine-like scent and a slightly bitter, astringent taste. It is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine, especially in dishes featuring roasted meats, potatoes, and vegetables. It is also used in herbal teas and as a flavouring in baked goods and confections.

In addition to its culinary uses, rosemary has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It is believed to have a variety of potential health benefits, such as improving memory and concentration, reducing inflammation, and promoting digestion. Some studies have also suggested that rosemary may have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Health Benefits of Feeding Rosemary to Horses

Boosted Immunity

Rosemary contains powerful antioxidants, such as rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid, which help support a healthy immune system. Rosemary also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation, which is an important component of keeping the immune system functioning optimally.

Weight Management

Rosemary can also be beneficial for helping horses manage their weight. The minerals and vitamins found in rosemary help support efficient metabolism and energy production, which can help horses maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, the antioxidants in rosemary can help promote cell health, which can improve the body's ability to metabolize fat.

Support Respiratory health

Rosemary has long been used to strengthen a horse's respiratory system, especially in instances of coughs, colds, and other respiratory illnesses. The volatile oils in rosemary have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling in the airways and reduce irritation. It might ease sore lungs and lessen mucus formation.

Support healthy hormone balance

Rosemary helps support healthy hormone balance in horses. Its active compounds can help reduce cortisol levels, which helps balance hormones. Its high antioxidant levels can also reduce oxidative stress, which helps to promote normal hormone regulation. Additionally, rosemary is useful in treating symptoms of certain conditions like Cushing’s, PPID, and EMS, which can affect hormone balance in horses.

Improved digestive health

Improved digestion is one of the most common benefits of rosemary for horses. Rosemary contains a compound called carnosol, which helps to reduce inflammation and support healthy gut bacteria. Carnosol can also reduce the risk of certain gastrointestinal infections, making it an ideal supplement for horses with sensitive stomachs. Rosemary also contains flavonoids, which can help stimulate the digestive system and boost nutrient absorption.

Tips on How to Include Rosemary in Horse’s Diet

Choose fresh rosemary

Fresh, organic rosemary is the best choice for horses because it has the highest nutrient content and the least potential for contaminants.

Preparation

It's easy to prepare rosemary for horses. The most common way is to chop the leaves and add them directly to feed. It's also possible to soak the leaves in water and give them as herbal tea, or make a herbal mash with carrots and apples. You can also dilute the essential oil and add it to water or food.

Start with a small amount

Yes, it's important to start with small amounts when introducing rosemary to your horse's diet. This will give your horse's digestive system time to adjust and allow you to monitor for any adverse reactions before increasing the amount.

Consult your veterinarian

Before introducing any new feed or supplement to your horse's diet, it's important to consult with a veterinarian to make sure it's safe and appropriate for your horse.

Potential Risks of Feeding Rosemary to Horses

Gastrointestinal upset

Some horses may experience gastrointestinal upset after consuming rosemary, especially if they are not used to eating it. This can include symptoms like diarrhoea, colic, and stomach discomfort.

Photosensitivity

Rosemary contains compounds called furanocoumarins, which can make horses more sensitive to sunlight. This can lead to sunburn and other skin problems, especially in horses with light-coloured hair.

Respiratory issues

While rosemary is traditionally used to support respiratory health, some horses may be sensitive to the herb and develop respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

Drug interactions

Rosemary may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and antihypertensive drugs. It is essential to speak with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist before feeding rosemary to horses that are taking medication.

Toxicity

In large amounts, rosemary can be toxic to horses. Symptoms of rosemary toxicity may include depression, lethargy, tremors, seizures, and gastrointestinal problems.

Alternatives to Rosemary 

If you are looking for alternatives to rosemary to feed your horse, many herbs and vegetables can provide similar health benefits without the potential risks and side effects. Some of these herbs and vegetables include ginger, turmeric, dandelion, chamomile, peppermint, and thyme.

Final Words

Rosemary is a nutritious and beneficial herb that can help to improve the health and well-being of horses. However, it is important to feed rosemary in moderation and always consult with a veterinarian to ensure it is safe for your horse. Additionally, some other herbs and supplements may be safer or more appropriate for your horse's diet, so be sure to research all of your options before making a decision.